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It’s been a busy year for the Dog’s Trust, with more and more dogs being brought to its rehoming center through lockdown.
Based in Uddingston, the charity is a resource for owners who need advice and training for their pets, for those who need to take their dog in, and for people who want to adopt.
In the six months leading up to February, the charity saw web traffic on its “abandon your dog” page increased 41%. This shows that more and more people are considering parting with their pet.
But on the lighter side, the demand for a dog has hit record levels – and more pooches are finally finding their homes forever.
We caught up with center manager Sandra Downie, who discussed how a year of lockdown has affected the Dogs Trust – from heartbreaking stories and fraudulent puppy dealers to asking why some breeds are more popular than others.
How the lockdown changed working life
Sandra said that many dogs experience separation anxiety and socialization problems because they spend more time indoors.
Owners struggling with their dogs’ behavior and coming to the Dogs Trust will be alerted to local dog trainers and online schools, and advice on how to adapt their puppies to life as more people return to the office.
But in one sad case, a nurse from Glasgow felt she was neglecting her beloved pet and reluctantly reached out to the charity to help him with housing.
“That was an unusual case, but we’re seeing it more and more alike during the lockdown,” said Sandra.
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The pandemic has also left thousands of Scots unemployed while others worry about finances.
She shared how a devastated owner was forced to give up his dog and live in his car after losing his job and home.
“It is often difficult to get rental accommodation that accepts dogs and others don’t have friends and family to help,” she said. “This person tried everything, but ultimately the situation was one that they cannot control. Part of loving a dog is doing what is right for them and enabling them to have a better life.”
Find out how to make the transition to normal for your pets as painless as possible as lockdown restrictions wear off.
The rise in puppy keeping
The charity was inundated with younger puppies during the lockdown – some between eight and 18 months old.
These are individual puppies bought online from low welfare puppy dealers. These use sophisticated methods like renting Airbnb accommodations and using burner phones to avoid getting caught by the police.
The demand for designer dogs has increased over the past year and prices have increased due to fewer breeders, fueling profitable puppy trade and dog theft.
The most sought after are designer crossbreeds and pure breeds such as French Bulldogs, Cockapoos, and Dachshunds.
Sandra said, “Families have come to us with sick puppies that were bought online and not sure what to do but they knew they couldn’t take care of it. They were hoping for a healthy, socialized puppy for them Children didn’t have it. The unexpected veterinary costs can be very high, especially if it’s an ongoing health problem. “
There are no set criteria for adopting a dog
Many Glasgow Live readers who “want to adopt, not shop” have reported that it is difficult to get rejection after rejection from animal welfare organizations.
Sandra explains that some dogs get up to 500 messages on her website while other pooches don’t – but she understands how frustrating it can be for people looking for a pet.
“We don’t have any specific criteria, but our job is to make sure the dogs fit their perfect homes,” she said.
“We recently put up a dog and within an hour there were 50 applicants, and there is a dog next to it with no inquiries. It’s a shame.
“People tend to want puppies or fully trained dogs with few problems. The dogs people want can be left alone and are good with children. They are the easiest to house. They walk incredibly quickly.
“Others who have been on the site longer have trauma and need certain things in their new home. We need to make sure the new owners are the right owners.”
She added that every dog has individual needs and a personality that is tailored to the right person.
“You may have two five-year-old hybrids that look identical, but one needs a house and yard and no other dogs, while the other lives in an apartment with a cat and a toddler.”
Nice Lurcher chance at the Dogs Trust in 2018
Be open
Breeds that are harder to house include greyhounds like greyhounds and lurchers, staffie crosses, and older dogs in general.
Dogs with black and brindle coats are also less popular.
On average, greyhounds and Lurchers spent twice as long in kennels, waiting for new potential owners.
Sandra explains that there is a common misconception that greyhounds need plenty of exercise, walking, and are less social than other breeds.
“People see them as boring and calm, which is not true! They love their own quirks and personalities. Give them a chance!” She said.
It’s okay to ask for help
Sandra insists the Dogs Trust is there to help: if you feel like you can no longer look after your dog, don’t be ashamed to reach out to him.
There are a number of services available such as support, training, dog training, and rehoming as a last resort.
She said, “For people struggling financially, emotionally, and mentally, it is never embarrassing to take care of their situation or be ashamed to ask for help. We do not judge. It has been a more difficult time than ever last year. We’re here to help. ” You and your dog and give you peace of mind.
“We do everything we can to maintain the relationship between the dog and family. But when the time comes that they need permanent rehabilitation, we will select the best forever home for your pet.”
The Dogs Trust is committed to finding the perfect family for all of the pets in their care
(Image: Dogs Trust)
How do I find out more?
Although the Uddingston Rehoming Center is currently closed to the public due to the current lockdown restrictions, Dogs Trust Glasgow can still accept some dogs by handing over them at home.
For dogs that potential owners have to meet a few times before they go home, the team can pique the interest of members of the public and arrange visits when lockdown restrictions wear off.
If you are looking to find and adopt a canine companion, visit the Dogs Trust website here and contact the team for more information.
If for any reason you are having trouble taking care of your dog, contact Dogs Trust on 0300 303 2188.
