A dog charity is urging families to open up their homes to stray pets. Bosses at Hyndburn Stray Dogs in Need say they are entering one of their busiest times of year with more unwanted dogs being found on the streets.
The Rishton-based charity is calling for anyone able to offer a dog a loving home to get in touch.
Founder Steve Wood said this is the worst time of year for dogs finding themselves “homeless, unwanted, unloved, cold and hungry”.
He added: “It’s a terrible thing to say but some people will get rid of dogs like they get rid of a pile of curtains. We always see a pattern every year as it gets busy before and after Christmas.
“You can have five dogs come in one day, some will get reclaimed but others we will need to find new homes for.”
Welfare officer Steve, who founded the charity back in 1999, said the rising cost of caring for dogs is a contributing factor to the number of strays.
He said: “It does frighten me taking my dog to the vets as it is really expensive. With a consultation and some medication it can cost £100 so anyone who is retired or on limited income will struggle. If you are going to have a dog you need to make sure you can afford all the costs involved like vet bills, food and insurance.”
The charity is also appealing for any spare blankets or sheets.
