The Most Popular UK Areas for Dog Adoption
At the height of lockdown, many welcomed furry friends into their homes, creating a puppy boom. However, now that life has returned to normal for some and others are experiencing job uncertainty, several owners have sadly had to place their dogs in shelters.
According to Battersea, 31% of people who acquired a dog or cat during lockdown hadn't considered becoming pet owners previously, indicating that getting a pet was an impulsive decision based on having an unusual amount of free time.
Being abandoned can cause dogs extreme anxiety and put pressure on local charities, but, thankfully, recent research has revealed a huge interest in adopting dogs across the UK.
Benchmark Kennels have analysed the number of visits to dog shelter websites around the 100 most populated UK towns and cities to discover the areas with the highest demand for rehoming pups.
The top five areas with the most interest in dog adoption
These findings revealed that Watford is currently the most popular area for dog adoption in 2021, with 12,799 average monthly visits to a shelter website.
Bristol closely followed with an average of 11,916 dog adoption website visits per month. In third, Edinburgh had 11,696 site visits.
Cardiff and Newcastle completed the top five UK areas, with 8,442 and 6,994 average monthly traffic retrospectively to dog rescue websites.
Belfast residents show the lowest interest in dog adoption.
In the top 25 UK areas, Belfast dog adoption sites had the least interest, with only 820 monthly visits on average, which equates to just 0.2% of the Northern Ireland capital's population.
However, this low figure isn't hugely surprising as a recent survey cited Belfast as the sixth least dog-friendly place in the UK.
Has dog adoption increased over lockdown?
The overall interest in dog adoption has increased by 14.7% over lockdown. In the first six months of 2020, there was an average monthly number of 1,474 residents per UK town or city visiting dog adoption sites. A year later, this figure climbed to 1,692.
How many people are surrendering their dogs?
The Benchmark Kennels research found that from January to June in 2020, there was an average of 22 monthly visits to 'giving up your dog' websites in each of the 100 most populated towns and cities across the UK, which lowered to 17 during the first six months of 2021.
However, the RSPCA claims to receive 40 calls a day regarding abandoned animals.
Cheryl Sampson, Marketing Manager at Benchmark Kennels, says: “It's so heartening to see that there's been an increase in dog adoption, especially considering that lockdown has also spurred a rise in dog theft and abandonment.
“Adopting a dog is such a wonderful act of kindness, as it gives the pup another chance at a forever-home while also bringing so much joy into the new owner's life.
“Dog adoption is also a huge responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly, as you don't want to repeat the mistakes of the former owner and have to give up the pup later down the line.
“Before committing to this decision, consider if you have time to train, exercise, and care for the pooch, as well as giving them the attention they deserve. There's also the ongoing costs involved to keep in mind, such as vet bills, food, petsitters, grooming, toys, and beds.
“If you're certain dog adoption is right for you, try to ease any stress they may be feeling when welcoming them into your home, and help them adjust to you as their new owner. Providing them with a crate or kennel will give the pup a place to get some peace and quiet if they're feeling overwhelmed.”
Contact your local dog rescue centre for further advice or information on adopting a dog in your area.
About Benchmark Kennels
Benchmark Kennels manufacture bespoke dog kennels to suit dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes. You can customise your outdoor kennel to be as luxurious or minimalist as required, built using various materials from wooden to WPC eco-thermal kennels with extra insulation. You can order a kennel directly from our website or get in touch with us for further advice on the best kennel for your dog's needs.
- Published in Blog
The Most Popular UK Areas for Dog Adoption
At the height of lockdown, many welcomed furry friends into their homes, creating a puppy boom. However, now that life has returned to normal for some and others are experiencing job uncertainty, several owners have sadly had to place their dogs in shelters.
According to Battersea, 31% of people who acquired a dog or cat during lockdown hadn't considered becoming pet owners previously, indicating that getting a pet was an impulsive decision based on having an unusual amount of free time.
Being abandoned can cause dogs extreme anxiety and put pressure on local charities, but, thankfully, recent research has revealed a huge interest in adopting dogs across the UK.
Benchmark Kennels have analysed the number of visits to dog shelter websites around the 100 most populated UK towns and cities to discover the areas with the highest demand for rehoming pups.
The top five areas with the most interest in dog adoption
These findings revealed that Watford is currently the most popular area for dog adoption in 2021, with 12,799 average monthly visits to a shelter website.
Bristol closely followed with an average of 11,916 dog adoption website visits per month. In third, Edinburgh had 11,696 site visits.
Cardiff and Newcastle completed the top five UK areas, with 8,442 and 6,994 average monthly traffic retrospectively to dog rescue websites.
Belfast residents show the lowest interest in dog adoption.
In the top 25 UK areas, Belfast dog adoption sites had the least interest, with only 820 monthly visits on average, which equates to just 0.2% of the Northern Ireland capital's population.
However, this low figure isn't hugely surprising as a recent survey cited Belfast as the sixth least dog-friendly place in the UK.
Has dog adoption increased over lockdown?
The overall interest in dog adoption has increased by 14.7% over lockdown. In the first six months of 2020, there was an average monthly number of 1,474 residents per UK town or city visiting dog adoption sites. A year later, this figure climbed to 1,692.
How many people are surrendering their dogs?
The Benchmark Kennels research found that from January to June in 2020, there was an average of 22 monthly visits to 'giving up your dog' websites in each of the 100 most populated towns and cities across the UK, which lowered to 17 during the first six months of 2021.
However, the RSPCA claims to receive 40 calls a day regarding abandoned animals.
Cheryl Sampson, Marketing Manager at Benchmark Kennels, says: “It's so heartening to see that there's been an increase in dog adoption, especially considering that lockdown has also spurred a rise in dog theft and abandonment.
“Adopting a dog is such a wonderful act of kindness, as it gives the pup another chance at a forever-home while also bringing so much joy into the new owner's life.
“Dog adoption is also a huge responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly, as you don't want to repeat the mistakes of the former owner and have to give up the pup later down the line.
“Before committing to this decision, consider if you have time to train, exercise, and care for the pooch, as well as giving them the attention they deserve. There's also the ongoing costs involved to keep in mind, such as vet bills, food, petsitters, grooming, toys, and beds.
“If you're certain dog adoption is right for you, try to ease any stress they may be feeling when welcoming them into your home, and help them adjust to you as their new owner. Providing them with a crate or kennel will give the pup a place to get some peace and quiet if they're feeling overwhelmed.”
Contact your local dog rescue centre for further advice or information on adopting a dog in your area.
About Benchmark Kennels
Benchmark Kennels manufacture bespoke dog kennels to suit dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes. You can customise your outdoor kennel to be as luxurious or minimalist as required, built using various materials from wooden to WPC eco-thermal kennels with extra insulation. You can order a kennel directly from our website or get in touch with us for further advice on the best kennel for your dog's needs.
- Published in Blog
How to Keep Your Dog Cool
Worried your pup isn’t enjoying the sun as much as you are? Especially if you have an excitable young puppy or your pet is nearing the end of its life, staying cool is hugely important, for your dog’s general happiness as well as their health. Some breeds are more sensitive to heat exhaustion than others. If your pup is a flat-faced breed like a pug or chow-chow or has a thicker, heavy coat like a golden retriever, you’ll need to be even more vigilant when it comes to keeping them cool, hydrated and out of the sun.
As a general rule, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Benchmark Kennels have rounded up the best ways to keep your pup cool, so you can enjoy the sunshine with your furry friend, in as safe a way as possible.
How to Cool Your Dog Down
Avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day
Although summer seems like the perfect time to enjoy endless walks with your pup, be aware that exercising in the hot sun can cause your dog’s temperature to rapidly overheat. If you can, take your dog out in the early morning or late afternoon, when the air and pavements are both cool enough for your pup to have a proper runaround, without the risk of overheating.
If it’s just too hot to take your dog on your usual walking route at all, you’ll need to introduce other activities that involve limited energy, but still help your pup get some mental stimulation. Brain games at mealtimes will ensure your dog can enjoy getting rid of some excess energy and spend some bonding time with you too.
Choose an insulated kennel
It’s important for your dog to have a shady, safe space they can relax in when it gets too hot for them to play outside comfortably. Kennels with insulated panels like Benchmark’s insulated timber cabins help keep your dog protected from the elements all year round. When the temperature heats up, thermal insulation regulates temperatures inside your kennel, so your pup can stay cool during summer, and warm during winter.
Low maintenance eco-thermal kennels are also a great option for your pup, offering ventilation, space to move around and play in, and a shaded area away from direct sunlight so that your dog can cool down easily. Elevated kennels with a raised bed help improve the airflow too, keeping your animal’s cosy home cool and well ventilated.
Make sure you have water with you at all times
The easiest and most important way to keep your dog happy and healthy in the summertime is to make sure they stay hydrated. Dogs need access to cool, clean water at all times. If you’re out and about with your pup, make sure to keep a bottle of water with you, or you could even use a frozen toy to entertain them while regulating their temperature at the same time.
You can also use cool water to pour over your pup if they seem to be panting heavily, or they’ve spent time in the sun. Remember though, you should never give your dog any ice or an icy cold drink when they’re too hot. This could encourage their body temperature to cool down too quickly, and ultimately make their symptoms worse.
Never leave your dog in an unattended car
Unventilated spaces can feel stuffy, claustrophobic and unbearably hot to humans, so imagine how uncomfortable they will be to our furry friends. You should never leave your dog in your car. Even if you leave your pup with water, crack the car windows or are only intending to leave them for a short period of time, your car can heat up incredibly quickly. Most pet owners know the risks, but even after just a few minutes, a hot car can cause serious and potentially fatal issues.
Your pet’s hair should be long enough to stay comfortable, without the risk of it becoming matted, tangled or dirty. Even for dogs that moult a lot, regular brushing and grooming can give you the opportunity to check your puppy’s fur and skin for any issues, burns or bites, as well as helping you form an even closer bond with them. Taking the time to regularly give your dog a good brush gives you the chance to spend some quality time with your pup, and stop their matted fur from becoming hot and irritated in the summer heat too.
Remember that animal fur has evolved to act as insulation in the winter and as a cooling system in the summertime. Because of this, you should never shave your pup or trim their coat without the help of a professional groomer.
Spotting the signs of heat exhaustion
With higher sensitivity than us, dogs are unfortunately much more likely to suffer overheating, heat exhaustion and dehydration than we are. If your dog isn’t kept cool, they could suffer uncomfortable symptoms of heatstroke, a condition that can be fatal if it’s not noticed quickly. To protect your pup during the summer, it’s important to recognise the signs of heatstroke, as well as how to prevent it from happening.
- Excessive panting and dribbling
- Vomiting
- Reddened gums
- Mental confusion
- General discomfort
- Weakness or collapse
You know your furry friend better than anyone. Keeping an eye out for any signs of unusual behaviour in your dog, as well as taking measures to keep them as cool as possible, will help stop the temperature from affecting them, so you can enjoy the sun safely and happily. Heatstroke can cause serious problems, quickly, so keep your dog close by on hot days to make sure you can monitor them carefully.
If you’re looking for the perfect kennel to ensure your pup is as healthy, happy and cool as possible during the summer months, Benchmark Kennels offer a range of kennel options for your dog to call their own, as well as advice on the best kind of home for your extra family member.
- Published in Blog
Tips for Creating a Dog-Friendly Garden
Having access to a garden is a great way for dogs to stay physically active and mentally stimulated. Being outdoors brings variety to your pup’s day and allows them to burn off any built-up energy. The smells, sounds, and textures outside stimulate their senses too.
However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your dog from potential dangers lurking in the garden and prevent the pup from damaging the outdoor space too.
To help you create a dog-friendly garden, Benchmark Kennels have put together a guide on the most effective adjustments you can make.
Ensure your dog is comfortable
Tailoring your garden to enhance your dog’s comfort can help them feel calm, which is especially beneficial if your pup is anxious.
- Outdoor dog kennel
An outdoor dog kennel can act as a den for your dog, providing them with a relaxing area when they need some alone time but still want to reside outside. To encourage your pup to use it, equip the kennel with blankets, food, water, and toys.
However, don’t use the kennel as punishment and carefully follow a responsible training plan, so the dog doesn’t feel isolated.
Eliminate harmful gardening elements
Unless designed with a dog in mind, gardens are often rife with toxic elements that can cause accidents.
- Dog-friendly plants
Certain plants are poisonous for dogs and, if ingested, can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and drooling and would require immediate veterinary attention.
Although consuming too much of any plant can harm pups, here are some low-risk options:
- Sunflowers
- Rosemary
- Camellia
- Fennel
- Roses
- Coral bells
- Snapdragon
- Sage
Also, avoid using chemical gardening products and use natural alternatives instead.
- Lock your shed
If your shed contains chemicals and sharp gardening tools, keep it locked at all times in case your dog wanders inside it.
Protect your pup against theft
Unfortunately, thieves commonly take pups from their own garden, but you can minimise the risk of dog theft by making a few additions to your outdoor space. However, there’s no guarantee that your dog is ever fully protected against theft, so always supervise them when outside.
- Fencing
Fitting a fence that’s at least six feet tall will prevent your dog from jumping over the garden and running away and make it more difficult for thieves to access the garden.
- Gates
Keep any garden gates locked and fit a bell onto the door to scare off any thieves and notify you if anyone opens it.
- Kennel
Place the kennel near the house as fitting it at the bottom of the garden can appeal to thieves. Always keep the kennel locked, too, and consider placing bells on the door, so you’re alerted if it’s opened.
Avoid damage to your garden
Although your dog’s safety is the priority, don’t forget to protect the garden from your dog too.
- Select a designated toilet area
When dogs urinate on a lawn, it causes unsightly brown patches. To prevent this bad habit from developing, follow a toilet training process to encourage them to use a specific spot in the garden that’s out-of-sight. If your dog does urinate on the grass, rinse it down immediately to minimise the damage.
- Create an obstacle course
A bored dog might destroy your garden out of frustration but you can keep them entertained by designing a play area with toys.
You could also create a dog agility training obstacle course to help keep your pup active, teach them tricks and commands, reduce their anxiety, and strengthen your bond. The equipment can include tunnels, tyre jumping, weave poles, and balance beams.
- Pathways
Dogs often enjoy patrolling the garden, so having clearly defining paths can keep your pup from walking right through the flower beds and flattening them over time.
- Dedicated digging spot
Digging is an instinctive canine behaviour that can ease boredom and anxiety, but it can quickly destroy your garden.
Providing your dog with a toxic-free sandbox for digging can deter them from digging up your flower beds and plants.
Precautions for hot weather
During summer, dogs can quickly overheat and develop heatstroke if you don’t implement preventative measures, such as:
- Avoid using artificial grass, as it retains more heat than natural grass, which can burn your pup’s paws.
- Keep plenty of clean, fresh, and cold drinking water in the garden so your dog can rehydrate.
- Install a shallow water feature or set up a doggy paddling pool so your dog can cool down.
- Create shaded areas in the garden with large trees and shrubs.
However, even with these measures, don’t keep your pup outside for too long in the heat, and if they’re exhibiting any signs of heatstroke (e.g., heavy panting, vomiting, weakness, and excess drooling), take them to the vet straight away as it can be fatal if unaddressed.
Implementing these adjustments to your garden will allow you to enjoy spending quality time with your dog outside free of worry.
Need an outdoor kennel to complete your dog-friendly garden?
Outdoor kennels are an excellent way for your dog to enjoy being outside safely and comfortably. At Benchmark Kennels, we offer a range of sheltered, secure and spacious kennels that you can customise to suit your dog’s breed, personality, and size.
For more information on our range of outdoor kennels, contact us via phone or order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today.
- Published in Blog
Tips for Creating a Dog-Friendly Garden
Having access to a garden is a great way for dogs to stay physically active and mentally stimulated. Being outdoors brings variety to your pup’s day and allows them to burn off any built-up energy. The smells, sounds, and textures outside stimulate their senses too.
However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your dog from potential dangers lurking in the garden and prevent the pup from damaging the outdoor space too.
To help you create a dog-friendly garden, Benchmark Kennels have put together a guide on the most effective adjustments you can make.
Ensure your dog is comfortable
Tailoring your garden to enhance your dog’s comfort can help them feel calm, which is especially beneficial if your pup is anxious.
- Outdoor dog kennel
An outdoor dog kennel can act as a den for your dog, providing them with a relaxing area when they need some alone time but still want to reside outside. To encourage your pup to use it, equip the kennel with blankets, food, water, and toys.
However, don’t use the kennel as punishment and carefully follow a responsible training plan, so the dog doesn’t feel isolated.
Eliminate harmful gardening elements
Unless designed with a dog in mind, gardens are often rife with toxic elements that can cause accidents.
- Dog-friendly plants
Certain plants are poisonous for dogs and, if ingested, can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and drooling and would require immediate veterinary attention.
Although consuming too much of any plant can harm pups, here are some low-risk options:
- Sunflowers
- Rosemary
- Camellia
- Fennel
- Roses
- Coral bells
- Snapdragon
- Sage
Also, avoid using chemical gardening products and use natural alternatives instead.
- Lock your shed
If your shed contains chemicals and sharp gardening tools, keep it locked at all times in case your dog wanders inside it.
Protect your pup against theft
Unfortunately, thieves commonly take pups from their own garden, but you can minimise the risk of dog theft by making a few additions to your outdoor space. However, there’s no guarantee that your dog is ever fully protected against theft, so always supervise them when outside.
- Fencing
Fitting a fence that’s at least six feet tall will prevent your dog from jumping over the garden and running away and make it more difficult for thieves to access the garden.
- Gates
Keep any garden gates locked and fit a bell onto the door to scare off any thieves and notify you if anyone opens it.
- Kennel
Place the kennel near the house as fitting it at the bottom of the garden can appeal to thieves. Always keep the kennel locked, too, and consider placing bells on the door, so you’re alerted if it’s opened.
Avoid damage to your garden
Although your dog’s safety is the priority, don’t forget to protect the garden from your dog too.
- Select a designated toilet area
When dogs urinate on a lawn, it causes unsightly brown patches. To prevent this bad habit from developing, follow a toilet training process to encourage them to use a specific spot in the garden that’s out-of-sight. If your dog does urinate on the grass, rinse it down immediately to minimise the damage.
- Create an obstacle course
A bored dog might destroy your garden out of frustration but you can keep them entertained by designing a play area with toys.
You could also create a dog agility training obstacle course to help keep your pup active, teach them tricks and commands, reduce their anxiety, and strengthen your bond. The equipment can include tunnels, tyre jumping, weave poles, and balance beams.
- Pathways
Dogs often enjoy patrolling the garden, so having clearly defining paths can keep your pup from walking right through the flower beds and flattening them over time.
- Dedicated digging spot
Digging is an instinctive canine behaviour that can ease boredom and anxiety, but it can quickly destroy your garden.
Providing your dog with a toxic-free sandbox for digging can deter them from digging up your flower beds and plants.
Precautions for hot weather
During summer, dogs can quickly overheat and develop heatstroke if you don’t implement preventative measures, such as:
- Avoid using artificial grass, as it retains more heat than natural grass, which can burn your pup’s paws.
- Keep plenty of clean, fresh, and cold drinking water in the garden so your dog can rehydrate.
- Install a shallow water feature or set up a doggy paddling pool so your dog can cool down.
- Create shaded areas in the garden with large trees and shrubs.
However, even with these measures, don’t keep your pup outside for too long in the heat, and if they’re exhibiting any signs of heatstroke (e.g., heavy panting, vomiting, weakness, and excess drooling), take them to the vet straight away as it can be fatal if unaddressed.
Implementing these adjustments to your garden will allow you to enjoy spending quality time with your dog outside free of worry.
Need an outdoor kennel to complete your dog-friendly garden?
Outdoor kennels are an excellent way for your dog to enjoy being outside safely and comfortably. At Benchmark Kennels, we offer a range of sheltered, secure and spacious kennels that you can customise to suit your dog’s breed, personality, and size.
For more information on our range of outdoor kennels, contact us via phone or order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today.
- Published in Blog