Animal welfare centres prepare for influx of unwanted pets

Animal welfare centres are expecting a traditional post-Christmas influx of unwanted pets within the next few weeks.

By the beginning of March, such centres normally report an increase of between 20% and 30% in unwanted animals, particularly dogs.

They believe this year will be no different, despite repeated warnings about giving pets as presents.

The National Animal Centre in Longford said a large number of unwanted pets are re-homed each year, but up to 30,000 are put down because new owners cannot be found.