MORE than 1,400 stray dogs have been reported by members of the public to Barnsley Council in just five years, new figures have revealed.
A Freedom of Information request showed a total of 1,411 have been registered as stray with the council’s rescue service since January 2020.
It means that on average 27 stray dogs are reported in the area every week, but animal charities believe the figures will be much higher due to many incidents not being reported.
“The data only scratches the surface of the wider issue of pet neglect,” a spokesperson at puppies.co.uk said.
“After all, not all dogs believed to be neglected are reported to councils so the real number is likely much higher.
“We know that dog ownership increased in the pandemic but as life returns to normal and with the current cost-of-living crisis, some owners are struggling to care for their pets.
“The rise in animal neglect and abandonment is a heartbreaking reminder of the responsibility that comes with pet ownership.
“A dog is a life-long commitment, not a short-term convenience.
“It takes time, energy and patience to build a trusting relationship and owners need to be prepared for the challenges that come with caring for an animal.
“One of the most important steps is researching the breed thoroughly to ensure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
“Next, if you decide that buying a newborn puppy is the right move for you, choosing a breeder who follows responsible practices is paramount.
“It’s also a good idea to speak with experienced owners, visit dog parks, read books and watch educational videos to understand what responsible dog ownership truly means.
“No dog deserves to be abandoned because of an avoidable misunderstanding or lack of preparation.”
It comes after Courtney Archer, of Grange View, Blacker Hill admitted three counts of neglect relating to Sheba, her Staffordshire bull terrier, at Barnsley Magistrates’ Court last week.
Following an RSPCA-led probe, Sheba was found to have been suffering from skin and ear diseases.
The 27-year-old was given a five-year ban from owning pets following a hearing at Barnsley Magistrates’ Court and was also told to pay £400 in court costs and a £114 surcharge.
Qarrar Somji, director at Witan Solicitors, added: “The Animal Welfare Act 2006 means that abandonment of animals is a criminal offence.
“Dog owners are required by law to meet their pet’s welfare needs.
“This includes ensuring their pet has a suitable environment and diet, the act also highlights that pets should be protected from avoidable suffering and pain.
“The penalties for breaching the act include fines of up to £20,000, up to 51-week jail terms, and bans on pet ownership.
“We advise owners to be aware of these laws and penalties and strongly recommend those struggling to meet their dog’s needs to look into ethical alternatives such as rehoming.”
