Eight dog owners per day look to surrender their pets since Christmas

Maggie, a five-month-old Spaniel puppy who was surrendered to Dogs Trust Ireland after her owners were duped into buying what was falsely advertised online as a ‘hypoallergenic’ dog. Pictures: Fran Veale

An animal rescue charity has been received eight requests every day since Christmas Day from members of the public looking to relinquish their dogs to their care.

Dogs Trust Ireland is making an urgent appeal for foster homes to help these pups after receiving almost 300 surrender requests, a staggering 73% increase on the 172 calls made during the same period last year.