The DSPCA has appealed for people to avoid buying dogs online following a surge in surrenders.
The Dublin based charity took to social media to announce that their shelter was at full capacity. The charity is witnessing a high volume of abandoned dogs arriving at their shelter, which prevents people trying to properly surrender dogs from accessing the DSPCA's services.
Gillian Bird of the DSPCA explained that people looking to adopt a dog should visit a centre in person rather than relying on websites. Experts are on hand at organisations such as the DSPCA to ensure people select a suitable pet.
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Gillian told Dublin Live: "Don't just go online to check out pets because these are only some of the ones available. It's best to be onsite with staff present, as there might be dogs currently with foster families or on our waiting list that could suit your family."
The DSPCA will always try their best to rehabilitate dogs in need of a home. When the centre itself reaches full capacity, animals are usually sent out to the care of foster families.
Gillian explained that a lot of dogs currently at the centre are not microchipped, although dogs require them by law. The charity has recently started subsidised microchipping events for the first time since the pandemic.
Gillian added: "The uptake was a little slow but it was the first one in a while. We won’t run another one for another couple of weeks but they will be coming back on a more regular basis, and for cats too."
The animal charity commends people who make the tough decision to surrender a dog. However, the DSPCA can intervene with owners and dogs at an earlier stage to help with the process.
Gillian explained: "It’s incredibly brave to say someone can no longer look after the animal. We can help before people make that decision - usually by doing a behavioural assessment on the dog or carrying out some training."
The animal welfare organisation are advocating their 'Adopt Don't Shop' campaign following the recent influx of animals. The charity are looking for families to adopt rescue dogs in order to take in more animals.
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