News Dog rescue centre hit by credit crunch
Financial worries brought on by the credit crunch are hitting one part of the community especially hard -Â the family pet.
Jerry Green Dog Rescue in Gilberdyke is full to bursting point, and it would appear that there is no sign of a turn in this increasing tide of woe.
Chief executive Desmond Bergin said: "When people bring us their dogs it's increasingly lack of money they give as the reason for their decision. Regrettably, the family pet is finding it's being bitten by the hand that feeds it.
There's been an upturn in the number of dogs brought to us for the last three months, and all the kennels are now chock-a-block. People tell us they simply can't afford the bills.
"The trouble is that people don't understand that a dog isn't just a toy; it will develop problems. Unlike a Japanese car that never breaks down, a dog may need attention, and, if it's not insured, that's going to cost money."
Other reasons people give for leaving their dogs at Jerry Green Dog Rescue's seven centres are often bizarre, said Mr Bergin. "They say the dog's too big, too small, or even too old - and then ask if we can let them have a puppy, which of course we can't.
"Others give no reason at all, but just tie the dog to the gates when we're closed - or, unbelievably, simply throw the poor animal over the fence!"
Mr Bergin pointed out that the credit crunch and the associated financial worries it seems to be causing for people are a significant addition to the burden.
He said: "Fortunately we have dedicated and hard-working staff who are digging deep to keep on top of the extra workload we face."
Dogs are always available for adoption to the right home. Details or many of them are published on the organisation's website at www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk, where contact numbers and kennel opening hours can also be found.
Mr Bergin added: "We believe every dog deserves a home."
Published on 21st August 2008 in News.
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