Hold on to the sheer joy of owning a dog
Support in hard times for owners
AS THE January blues hit, new research shows that dogs bring people joy. A Dogs Trust survey reveals that an overwhelming majority of the UK’s owners — more than eight in ten (86 per cent) — say their dog helps them feel more positive if they’re feeling down. Owners have told the charity that spending time with their dog, such as playing with them or taking them for a walk, makes them feel more positive, and 81 per cent said their dog is important to their mental health. Given how much people rely on their dogs for wellbeing, it’s especially stark that the survey also reveals a third of owners are worried that the cost of living will make it harder to give their dog all the care it needs in 2023. Last year, Dogs Trust received a record number of enquiries — more than 50,000 — from owners about giving up their dogs, and there is a danger that this year could be even worse.
Just two weeks into January, the charity had already received 50 per cent more handover enquiries compared to the same period in 2022. Dogs Trust is encouraging any owner who is struggling with the cost of living to get in touch as soon as possible so that it can signpost them to available support and help as many dogs as possible to stay within their families.
Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust, says: ‘We know the joy dogs can bring to everyday life, especially when times are hard, and believe the best place for them is with the family who loves them. ‘If you’re an owner who is struggling, we can offer support, training and advice to help keep you and your dog together. ‘We’re here for you and your dog. Please give us a call before you reach crisis point.’