Welsh dog rescue centre inundated with Yorkshire Terriers as lockdown eases

A rescue centre has issued a plea for support from dog lovers following a sudden increase in strays as lockdown lifts.

Hope Rescue in Llanharan has already started noticing a spike in intake as a direct result of the unprecedented demand for dogs and puppies during lockdown.

Though they say this spike was anticipated, what they didn't expect was a sudden increase in Yorkshire Terriers specifically with 10 currently in their care ranging in age from two years to 14 years.

Hope Rescue's founder Vanessa Waddon said: “We’re experiencing a perfect storm at the moment which has led to a huge increase in the number of dogs in our care.

"Unprecedented demand for dogs and puppies during lockdown often being met by low welfare breeders and unscrupulous online sellers, followed by the easing of restrictions and the financial impact of Covid hitting some families hard has created a real welfare crisis for animal welfare charities

"Whilst this surge was expected, it’s really unusual to have so many little dogs in our care, including 10 Yorkshire Terriers. Some came in as strays and weren’t claimed by their owners, and others came in as their owners were sadly unable to care for them anymore, but did the right thing by asking for our help rather than selling them on.”

Unfortunately, the dogs will be needing treatment before they are ready to be rehomed as most of the Yorkshire Terriers have health issues. The charity reported that the majority have rotten teeth, and several also have eye and ear problems.
The spike in surrenders comes as many adopted during the height of lockdown, but circumstances mean they can no longer care for their pets

“It is going to cost us around £8,000 to ensure these wonderful little dogs are ready to find their new homes. This includes routine vaccinations, parasite treatment and neutering, as well as dental work and flushing out ears.

"Nik Nak and Rufus both need x-rays on their jaws, and poor Walker needs to have one of his eyes removed. Little Sweep also has some suspicious-looking lumps that need further investigation.”

The charity will ensure the dogs are well looked after until they find their forever home, but state after the effects of Storm Dennis and the ongoing pandemic, efforts to fundraise have become harder for the South Wales Rescue Centre.