A Birmingham charity is battling a dramatic and unprecedented spike in unwanted dogs.
And it fears the situation will get much worse over Christmas. The statistics released by Birmingham Dogs Home are startling. This year the organisation that has bases in Catherine-de-Barnes, Solihull, and Coven, Wolverhampton, took in 1,922 dogs.
The figure for the same period last year was 1,298. In the region, on average 43 dogs are abandoned every week. Yet the number of people enquiring about rehoming or adopting a dog has dropped significantly.
In a bid to combat the crisis, the Home has issued a “Christmas wishes to fill dishes” appeal – a plea for cash, food, blankets and toys - and we’ve selected 16 of its pets currently looking for a forever home.
Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said “We believe that every dog deserves a home to call their own, especially at Christmas but in the meantime, our home is theirs, and with support from the local community we can continue to care for them for as long as they need us.”
A £42 donation will feed one of the Home’s dogs for two weeks, £3 will provide food for a day.
The spokesperson added: “In addition to monetary donations, local dog lovers can also show their support by donating food, blankets and toys to help make a dog’s Christmas day a little more special.”
Here are 16 adoble pets at Birmingham Dogs Home looking for a forever home this Christmas:
1. Nero: 9 months, male
Meet Nero! She is a 9-month-old crossbreed who is looking for a loving forever home. This sweet girl loves a cuddle and a fuss, and she loves playing with her toys. She easily entertained and loves her hide and seek games with treats, i.e snuffle matts. Nero arrived at the centre as a stray, so much of her previous history is unknown. It is very clear that Nero is under socialised and frightful of new noises and surroundings.
2. Togo: 2 years, male
Togo is a lovable 2-year-old Husky who is in need of a new home. This sweet boy can be slightly timid at first, but once he comes out of his shell, he’s a big ball of fun! Togo loves to play with balls and squeaky toys and is highly motivated by treats.
3. Jasmine: 5 years and 5 months, female
Jasmine is a 5-year-old staffie cross who is ready to find her forever home. Jasmine is a very friendly girl who loves fuss, attention, and cuddles from her humans. She has a very gentle nature and is very loving and loyal. Jasmine has taken quite the interest in tennis balls and plays with them a lot
4. Evo: 11-years-old, male
Meet Evo, a delightful 11-year-old staffie, who is on a quest for a forever family that will cherish and adore him. Evo is a charming and affectionate boy with a zest for life. He loves exploring, and he thrives on discovering the world around him. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the park or a cozy evening on the couch, Evo is sure to make every moment special.