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Can you give a dog a home?

Richard Bedford-Smith
5/ 1/2007

THE last few weeks have been a typically busy time for wardens and Manchester Dogs' Home, with many dogs being abandoned after being bought for Christmas as unwanted pets.

The cross-breed orphans pictured were handed to police following reports their mother had died and are among 32 pups and 200 adult dogs handed over to Manchester and Cheshire Dogs' Home this Christmas.

John Newton, senior supervisor at the Cheshire home, said the four pups were being well fed and it was hoped they would find new homes.

But the pups will have to compete with thousands of other pets abandoned during the festive period.

Acting chief veterinary adviser David McDowell said: "Year on year, more and more pets are dumped, potentially to die."

Brian Maltby, general manager, said: "Some people don't have a great deal of Christmas spirit for dogs. We live in a disposable society, where people just get rid of things they don't want."

Manchester and Cheshire Dogs' Homes find new owners for more lost dogs than Battersea, re-homing 95 per cent of their total intake. One in five of these is returned to its original owner.

These phenomenal statistics are only achieved due to the hard work put in by management and staff at the home.

Secretary Brian Railton said: "Every one of our employees and volunteers works extremely hard. They do a great job and have to endure some awful sights but seeing a dog leave here happy makes it all worthwhile."

Buster, the home's one millionth dog, was rehomed last year and the occasion was marked by a visit from Lord Morris of Manchester. Buster was found wandering the streets of Middleton and brought in by Rochdale dog wardens. A standard health check revealed the labrador was blind due to full layer cataracts and had been left to fend for himself.

His original owners were untraceable but Buster is now being lovingly looked after by new carers.

Opened in 1893, Manchester Dogs' Home can accommodate around 500 dogs at a cost of £1m a year. The charity relies on public donations and legacies to stay open. Many fundraising events and appeals are organised through the year, such as raffles, fairs and sponsored dog walks. But donations are always welcome, including dog food.

There is a fostering scheme in place all year round for dogs who are particularly difficult to re-home. Dogs which are getting old, are plain looking or have minor behavoural issues can be overlooked, so the home helps fosterers with food and vet bills in a bid to encourage someone to provide a permanent new home.

Staff also highlight the responsibilities of dog ownership by regularly visiting schools.

If you have lost a dog or are interested in adopting a homeless dog, visit the home on Moss Brook Road, Harpurhey, or call 0871 918 1212. Opening times are 1pm to 5pm Monday to Friday and 1pm to 4pm on Sundays.

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