More than 40% of British dog owners have given up dogs in the past, with one in 25 abandoning them as strays, according to new research.
The study, conducted by Gala Bingo, in association with Thornberry Animal Sanctuary, also found that 15% sold their pet for profit while more than a third gave their dogs to sanctuaries.
TOWIE star and RSPCA ambassador Pete Wicks is leading a campaign calling for people to be more responsible when making the choice to get a dog during the Christmas season.
“The fact that so many dogs have to be given away shows that there is an issue in the UK when it comes to people buying pets they are unable or unwilling to care for,” he said. “I want to raise awareness of this and show people exactly why they should adopt and not shop, because every animal deserves a second chance.”
