More people are abandoning their dogs because of the recession as they cannot afford to keep them anymore, a dog warden from Plymouth has said.
As a result of this problem, Malcolm Orchard, a South Hams district council warden, is launching a campaign to encourage people to microchip their dogs, reports thisisplymouth.co.uk.
Mr Orchard explained that many people get a pet dog without realising what being a good owner actually involves.
He told the news provider: "They don't look at it too deeply - the level of exercise, how much time has to be spent training a young puppy and the level of knowledge you need to ensure that the animal is looked after.
"Dogs are expensive to keep. Some cost up to £30 a week to feed plus quite high veterinary costs."
Caroline Kisko, secretary of the Kennel Club, recently said that it is important to research dog breeds before getting a new pet.
She warned that it is important to choose a dog that will suit your lifestyle, so you can meet their grooming and exercise needs.
