ARE you looking to rehome a dog?

On National Dog Day today (Thursday), the RSPCA Isle of Wight branch is appealing for new homes for two shelter dogs as it calls for people to ‘adopt not shop’ for new pets.

Research has estimated that around 130,000 dogs come into UK rehoming charities every year with dogs being surrendered by their owners for a variety of reasons including ill-health, housing, financial or time constraints.

Yet despite being a nation of dog lovers, adopting is not an immediate choice with many turning to breeders to purchase a pet.

Only 17 per cent of dog owners acquired their pets from UK rescue or rehoming centres.

The RSPCA Isle of Wight animal rescue centre, which rehomed 214 animals during the pandemic last year including 40 dogs, 85 cats and 30 rabbits, is currently looking for homes for two of its shelter dogs.

Choji is a border terrier cross lurcher.

Puppy is an Anatolian Shepherd dog.

Centre manager Suzanne Pugh said: “Choji is a tan coloured, eight-year-old who came to the shelter after his owner’s health sadly deteriorated and is now seeking his forever home. Choji is a real character with a kind, gentle nature and loves going for walks, although he needs to build his confidence around larger dogs.

"He is best suited to a home without other pets and preferably an adult only household or a family with children of a secondary school age.

“Puppy is a cream, Anatolian Shepherd approximately one year old and came to the shelter seven weeks ago.

"He is a happy, healthy, larger than life boy who has stolen many hearts at the centre, with his affectionate, cuddly side. He is good with people yet still needs to learn how to remain relaxed around them and would benefit from living in an adult only home.

“Both dogs have undergone some positive reinforcement training and will require additional training support with their new owners.”

As part of its rehoming process, the charity ensures the animals in its care have been fully assessed by a vet and provided with any treatment before they are adopted. The dogs are also neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed.

The charity has a dedicated 'find a pet' page for all sorts of animal adoptions at rspca.org.uk/local/isle-of-wight-branch

Anyone interested can fill out a perfect match form and email it to reception@rspca-isleofwight.org.uk