London-based animal welfare charity highlights urgent need for adopters and foster carers this International Dog Day following record number of requests by dog owners to give up their pets
Animal welfare charity Mayhew says it is dealing with record numbers of requests by dog owners in London to give up their pets. The London-based charity rehomes dogs and cats who are looking for a second chance. However, due to continuing cost-of-living pressures, Mayhew has seen a surge in demand for their range of preventative animal welfare and veterinary services, and the rehoming centre in Kensal Green is ‘feeling the strain more than ever’.
In the first seven months of 2023 alone, the number of requests Mayhew received from pet owners to give up their dogs had increased by 66%, compared to the same period in 2022. The number of requests received from cat owners is even more stark, having increased by 96% compared to the same period in 2022.
Sherine Wheeler, Mayhew’s Chief Executive, explains, “The increase in the number of requests from dog owners to give up their animals so far this year is worrying. We have been grappling with the challenges of meeting the swell of requests and at the same time we are seeing a decrease in the number of prospective adopters and foster carers coming forward; this situation shows little sign of abating any time soon.”
The increase in pet owners unable to cope with caring for their dogs and cats has prompted an urgent appeal from Mayhew for donations and for adopters and foster carers to come forward this International Dog Day.
Mayhew is dedicated to honouring and upholding the human-animal bond, through its range of preventative veterinary and animal welfare services and rescue and rehoming services too. Research has shown that owning pets benefits our physical, social and mental health, including improvement in emotional and physical well-being and decreased feelings of isolation.
As actor and Mayhew adopter and supporter, Beatie Edney, explains, “My mother, the actress Sylvia Syms and I have both adopted dogs from Mayhew. So, I know the huge value and importance of adopting rescue dogs. A dog brings such joy, companionship and love into our lives. Charities like Mayhew can only continue their important work if they have adopters to provide a home for dogs and cats who are looking for their second chance. I urge anyone thinking about adding a pet to their family to consider whether they might be able to give a Mayhew dog or cat the forever home they deserve.”
