Behavioural problems are a common reason for rehoming, so prepare them for when you’re not there 24/7
Despite the lows of the past year, for many lockdown has been the perfect opportunity to welcome a dog into their lives. The demand for dogs during the pandemic has been huge, with a 60% increase in calls from people seeking to adopt from the Dogs Trust charity, and with many other rescue organisations reporting similar findings. Google searches for “buy a puppy” increased by 115% after the UK first went into lockdown in March 2020, with prices for some of the most sought-after breeds reaching record levels.
Dog ownership is a wonderful thing, but it is also a huge responsibility and a commitment that spans way beyond lockdown: as the saying goes, “A dog is for life”. As restrictions ease and the resumption of normality begins, it’s important we consider the implications for our canine companions and give them a hand to help them adjust.
