The RSPCA has seen a higher number of dogs in need of rehoming after lockdown blighted dogs’ access to proper training, socialising and outside world experience.
A representative of the RSPCA North Staffordshire has spoken about two wonderful dogs, struggling to find a loving home due to behavioural challenges.
Six-year-old Riot and five-year-old Rosie have become long time residents of the kennels in North Staffordshire.
Both being playful pooches in need of some training, the dogs have been looked over by owners who perhaps see them as too much work.
Rosie
RSPCA WS
Speaking to Birmingham Live, Dawn Hunter, who works at the branch, spoke about Riot: “He does need an owner willing to put the work in with him - but he will most certainly reward you with lots of love as he has so much to give.
“He interacts nicely with people and does listen - he loves going for a walk and a great big chew will keep him occupied for ages.”
Despite being a lovable creature, Dawn cites a few of Riot’s characteristics that can be helped with training but might put potential owners off.
She noted: “He is very strong on the lead but with some training, he would be much better.
Staffordshire bull terrier cross who was given up for adoption after the owner could not afford him, is taken for a walk by staff member Fiona Underwood, at the RSPCA Animal Rehoming centre in Uxbridge, London.
PA
“He can be reactive to other dogs so would need to be the only dog in the household and would be best with someone experienced.
“He will make someone the most loyal companion. He is such a lovely boy and we hope the right person out there for him finds him soon.”
Likewise, Rosie, who is a crossbreed, is described as a “very happy playful girl” but would need a patient owner.
Like Riot, Dawn recommends that Rosie be the only dog in her future home for she “doesn’t realise her strength.”
Staffordshire Bull Terrier at RSPCA Centre Newbrook Farm, Frankley Birmingham.
PA
Dawn said: “She will need someone with experience to help her train her to walk nicely on a lead. She is a very happy playful girl, who also likes to chill out throughout the day as well as explore.”
Her profile on the website adds: “She is very affectionate and responds well to food and treats – which will help with her training.”
The RSPCA reported that the number of dogs rehomed by the charity fell by 6 per cent from 4,877 in 2020 to 4,567 in 2021.
In 2021, the charity rescued 7,412 dogs, 11.9 per cent more than the 6,624 in 2020.
Dr Samantha Gaines, RSPCA's pet welfare expert, said: “Many of the animals - particularly dogs - who are coming into our care have behavioural challenges which could be linked to how they were bred as well as lockdown limiting the amount of training, socialising and outside world experience they had.”
Potential owners for Riot or Rosie are invited to visit the website here or call the branch on 01782 551515 to discuss the next steps. Adoption fees apply.
