đž Heartbreaking reality: Hundreds of dogs are being abandoned each year in Swansea. The local council is facing a challenging rise in the number of stray and abandoned dogs, with figures bouncing back to pre-Covid levels. Rising veterinary costs and living expenses may be driving this unfortunate trend.
Tom Price, a council officer, explains the difficult situation: âWe find more and more dogs in need of care being left with us, and sadly some don’t have microchips to help trace their owners.â Even for those with chips, tracking down the current owner isnât always easy as they often link back to breeders.
The process of rehoming these dogs is becoming tougher too, amidst nationwide struggles. While around 65%-75% of these dogs find new homes through charities or suitable individuals, and some are reunited with their owners upon payment of impoundment fees, there remains a number that have to be put down due to medical, behavioural issues, or if they are on banned lists.
Swansea Councilâs tightening of procedures comes on the back of audits highlighting missing paperwork, and amidst internal challenges such as a workforce stretched due to illness and compliance issues. Despite these hurdles, the dedicated team is working tirelessly to manage the situation, even as they strengthen their controls and work towards rehoming as many dogs as possible.
The council used to promote information about impounded dogs, but stopped after encountering instances of people fraudulently claiming animals that werenât theirs. It’s a tough road ahead, but the council is committed to finding solutions.
These stories underscore the importance of responsible pet ownership and awareness. Letâs hope for better days for these four-legged friends. đśâ¤ď¸
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