Dog breeders MUST take responsibility

This week’s Panorama programme (2 August) brought the Nation’s attention to the current plight of stray dogs. We were allowed to see one such dog, a Staffordshire bull terrier, put to sleep by a distressed, but very responsible vet, who performs this sad procedure several times a week.

Although the programme concentrated on London; pound dogs are put to sleep all over the country, the Midlands and the North being particularly bad.

Dorset charity Waggy Tails Rescue has been aware of this growing problem for some time and has over the years, taken dogs from the pounds through charities like Doris Banham (featured in the programme).   

Two dogs were taken last week from the Coventry pound and six Staffies from Croydon pound three weeks ago. 

Spokesman for the charity said, “Because we do not have enough foster homes for all these poor creatures, we are forced to use kennels as an emergency measure – this of course costs the charity a great deal of money. We much prefer to use foster homes where training and socialisation can continue. Staffordshire bull terriers can make the most loving pets in a family environment.  We have homed many very successfully. Aggression comes usually from stress of fear.

“In the past year, the requests to rehome dogs has escalated to twenty a week… and these are dogs in need here, in our local area.

“Our charity never puts a healthy dog to sleep and every dog we take in is adopted, no matter how long it takes. If it weren’t for  small rescue organisations many more dogs would be put to sleep and  the streets would be overrun with dogs no longer required, or ‘inconvenient.'”

Waggy Tails has been fundraising to buy its own sanctuary for five years now, but whenever it finds somewhere with possibilities, the council refuses to give planning permission.

Chairman of Waggy Tails, Shelagh Meredith added, “The Panorama programme omitted to point out that it is the breeders who are responsible for the problem.  

“All dogs should be licensed, microchipped and neutered by a certain age.  

“All breeders should be licensed, and dogs used for breeding would have a special licence (more expensive for a start).   

“Enforcement of this should not necessarily be the responsibility of local authorities, as some do not enforce the current breeding legislation, and most have been unable to cope with the stray dogs they already have.”

To help Waggy Tails with their work, please check their website on www.waggytails.org.uk or phone their office on 01202 875000. Donations are always gratefully received.