Shocking figures on pet abandonment in South Yorkshire as experts warn of ‘major dog welfare crisis’

In November, there were 985 reports of dumped and unwanted animals to the RSPCA’s cruelty line, 42 of which were in South Yorkshire.

The charity believes this is only going to increase after a surge in the number of dogs being sold online amid demand for ‘lockdown puppies’.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines has warned of a “dog welfare crisis” once Covid restrictions ease.

She said: "We expect that we’ll see a major dog welfare crisis this year as huge numbers of dogs are relinquished to rescue centres, sold on online or even abandoned; with struggling charities forced to pick up the pieces.

“We also have concerns that many dogs who have got used to having their owners at home may struggle to adapt once furloughing ends and people begin to migrate back to the office.

"We know that one of the major reasons dogs are relinquished is due to behaviour problems and research suggests that separation related anxiety may affect 85 per cent of dogs. This could result in more dogs coming into rescue centres as owners return to work and they struggle to cope.

"In addition to this, many of the puppies bought during lockdown will be approaching adolescence, a period of time where big behavioural changes can occur. This period does typically pass but may bring additional challenges for owners if unprepared for how best to manage their dog during this time.”

Pets4Homes, one of the UK's largest online pet marketplaces, identified that demand for puppies was 51 per cent greater than dogs aged one or older between July and September last year.

A total of 466,601 dogs have been advertised on the site so far, with average prices increasing by 131 per cent.

Dr Gaines added: “Sadly, we know that as animals are so readily and easily available to buy online, it can be very easy for people to buy a new pet on a whim and that often means that, within a few months, they quickly realise that they cannot cope with them and seek to give them up or sell them on.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.