Charity issues plea to the public not to buy dogs as Christmas presents

The Dogs Trust is urging the public not to buy or give dogs as presents. New statistics show online searches for puppies skyrocket by 44% in the countdown to Christmas. After analysing online search trends the charity found that:

  • Online searches of the phrase ‘buy a puppy’ increased by 44%

  • In the North West Shih Tzus and Golden Retrievers were the most sought after breeds.

Credit: pa

The charity, which has rescue centres in Manchester and on Merseyside, is encouraging people to make sure they’re ready for the commitment. And they're asking people to support rescue dogs in other ways.