Though Game of Thrones has left millions of avid Throwners wide-eyed, the show’s comeback will see an increase in the number of ‘wolf lookalike’ breeds abandoned, according to Dogs Trust Manchester.
The popular series returned last night and the UK’s largest dog welfare charity is bracing itself for an influx of canines in the coming weeks.
In 2014 alone, Dogs Trust took in 175 Huskies across their 20 Rehoming Centres, meaning the number has more than tripled in the past four years.
Head of training and behaviour, Lynn Barber, has called on potential owners to ensure they are in a position to offer the dogs a suitable lifestyle.
“In the show many of the fictitious ‘direwolves’, like Ghost, are seen covering miles and miles in their action packed adventures across Westeros,” she said.
“This is a life far more fitting to a wolf type breed than the one bedroom flats, in which some of them end up in reality.
“We are concerned that this dramatic increase in abandonment will continue at such a shocking rate, as people continue to buy these dogs, without due consideration.”
Dogs Trust is worried that new owners are often unprepared and ill-equipped to cope with the requirements of breeds like Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies.
A significant number are ending up in rescue centres and while the charity aims to rehome as many as possible, they are currently caring for 54 dogs.
Ms Barber feels that owners do not understand the long-term responsibility they take on when adopting a ‘wolf lookalike’ breed.
“These dogs are beautiful creatures and can make wonderful companions, but they need owners who are in a position to offer a lifetime commitment,” she added.
“They are powerful, large dogs that need regular exercise, socialisation and habituation and sadly, we are seeing many of these dogs being abandoned.
“This means that rescue centres, such as Dogs Trust, have to pick up the pieces.”
Image courtesy of Irene Mei, with thanks.
