UK animal welfare charity Dogs Trust is urging the public to remember that ‘dogs are for life, not just for lockdown’.
It comes as interest for adopting dogs is on the rise in many part of the world due to coronavirus lockdowns.
In the month after the UK’s nationwide lockdown was introduced on 23 March, Google searches for “buy a puppy” increased by 120%, according to Dogs Trust.
However, the charity is concerned there may be a spike in people giving up their dog when normality resumes, adding this is the reality that often follows Christmas when people also get dogs on a whim. Hence their famous slogan, “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas.”
To help with first time dog parents, Dogs Trust has put together a quiz to see if potential new dog parents ready for some of the basics of dog ownership!
“Dog ownership is a wonderful thing, but it is also a huge responsibility. As our saying goes, ‘a dog is for life’ and, in this case, not just for lockdown,” Dogs Trust states.
“If you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s important to think about what life will look on the other side of lockdown, when we are hopefully back to our usual routines and commitments. Consider what your usual daily and weekly life looks like and whether you can give a dog everything they need once things return to normal,” the charity stated.
“And lockdown or not, whenever you decide to get a dog, you need to know you can afford food, bedding, vet treatment and insurance for the duration of the dogs’ life, too,” Dogs Trust stated.
The online quiz includes questions asking whether potential dog parents are ready to become a ‘chief pooper scooper?’ wether they ‘ready to forego a lie-in ever again?’ and whether they around vet treatment and preparing for emergencies.”
Graham Norton, a TV presenter, dog parent and Dogs Trust supporter, said, “As a dog owner myself, I know how much joy four-legged friends bring to our lives. I’ve certainly found that my gorgeous dog, Bailey, has taken the boredom out of lockdown for me, and I’ve really enjoyed spending even more time with him than usual.”
“However, whilst the thought of introducing a cute, fluffy pooch to your family right now might be appealing, I fully support Dogs Trust’s important message that ‘A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Lockdown’. Don’t forget that you still have to walk a dog on a rainy evening, and pick up their poo in the dark,” Norton said.
To take the quiz, click here.
