February/March 2025
Spring Blog
What Happens to Stray, Lost and Unwanted Dogs?
Rescues have been bracing themselves for another year of abandoned and unwanted dogs, as already they are full to capacity. As we head into spring there has been a sharp rise in neglected dogs in the South Wales area. Two important animal charities featured here are Cardiff Dogs Home and Hope Rescue who we passionately support.
There are so many people who do not understand how to keep & look after a dog, which is why so many end up in rescues and shelters.
It is not surprising that many dogs surrendered by their owners claim they are strays. The genuine reasons for surrendering their dogs is that they cannot cope with the breed, or are unable to care for their dog purely because of life events like poor health reasons. Some owners simply cannot afford to care for them anymore. Another reason is that the dog’s behaviour has changed. Realistically something at home usually changes for the dog’s behaviour to change. Sometimes the RSPCA are involved if legal action needs to be taken in cruelty and abuse cases. Some are genuine strays picked up by the dog warden.
Sadly, many dogs have had several homes before ending up in rescue. All too often, we see dogs being repeatedly sold on Websites and WhatsApp groups (sometimes bred from each time). Sometimes they develop negative behaviours purely because they are confused or grieving for their last owners.
Cardiff Dogs Home
Dogs’ homes bridge that gap between rescues and fosters. Cardiff Dogs Home are unique in that they take in straying dogs and those no longer wanted, directly from the public. By the end of 2024, they had taken in 700 dogs. The dedicated staff there also work tirelessly to reunite lost dogs with their owners and find strays their forever homes.
If a stray dog is found in the Cardiff area, Cardiff Dogs Home arrange for a warden to collect them and scan for a microchip to see if the owner can be traced. If they are microchipped, a swift search for the owner takes place. If nobody comes forward within eight days, they are up for adoption. A vet checks every dog on arrival. If any of the dogs are too traumatised, or their quality of life is affected, they are humanely put to sleep – but only on veterinary advice. This decision is not taken lightly, although a dog behaviourist is usually involved at this stage.
Cardiff Dogs Home have been awarded two gold level RSPCA ‘PawPrints’ in recognition of outstanding kennelling and services. They even have a 24-hour drop off and overnight security service.
Hope Rescue
Hope Rescue are the leading dog welfare charity and do amazing work, as featured in our May 2023 blog. They take in and save stray dogs from local councils, assist with other rescue centres, rehome dogs, support pet owners and educate the public on responsible dog ownership. Hope Rescue have recently taken in litters of abandoned pups, dogs and puppies signed over from licensed breeders as well as many strays in terrible states. One poor dog was actually giving birth when being dumped at the vets!
Volunteers are at the heart of Hope Rescue’s work where they give their time and expertise to help the dogs in their care. There are volunteering opportunities available where you can support their work.
Adoption
As with all the fantastic rescues out there, strict and rigorous checks are made on anyone wanting to adopt, and that the new owners have everything in place to ensure a forever home. They even ask for other family members including other animals to meet them.
By rehoming a rescue dog, you will be freeing up valuable rescue space for other dogs in need. Choosing the right dog is more important than appearances. Please don’t overlook a crossbreed as they are less prone to genetic health issues – common in many breeds. They also have less of the distinctive guarding, hunting or herding instincts than in certain breeds.
Both Hope Rescue and Cardiff Dogs Home give support and education to the public to encourage responsible dog ownership. They also offer work experience and have regular open days for visitors.
Unsure about bringing a dog into your life and uncertain who would be the perfect fit for you? Why not consider fostering? So many older dogs are looking for a loving family and there are so many rescue charities looking for good foster homes.
Dogs need money, effort, stability, time and love. In return, they will reward you with many years of happiness, regardless of their past.
