More dogs up for adoption in town

MORE dogs are up for adoption in Barnsley than in most of Yorkshire, new research has revealed.

Statistics shows Barnsley is ranked fourth on the list, falling just below Doncaster, Ryedale and Hambleton.

The district currently has 559 dogs up for adoption, with the most common breed being Cocker Spaniels.

The rise in dogs being put up for adoption in the area is reportedly due to the cost-of-living crisis.

With energy bills skyrocketing, and families having to decide between heating their homes or feeding themselves, the number is expected to continue to rise.

On average, it takes an animal shelter four days to become full, and with the constant demand, the rescue centres do not have the capacity to cope with the increase.

The RSPCA rescues and rehomes thousands of dogs across England and Wales every year.

A spokesperson said: “Sadly, we are seeing lots of animals coming into our care at the moment due to the rising cost of living, with owners having to make heartbreaking decisions to part with their pets as they struggle to pay household bills and feed their families.

“We’d urge anyone who thinks they can commit to a dog – both time-wise and financially – to please consider taking on a rescue dog.”