Overview

• The charity reports an unprecedented rehoming crisis driven by several large-scale cruelty and neglect cases alongside a sector-wide slowdown.
• New RSPCA data shows an average rehoming time of 41 days, with Dobermans at 73 days, German Shepherds 57 days and Bulldogs 52 days versus seven days for Yorkshire terriers, 12 for chihuahuas and 16 for cocker spaniels.
• Breeds frequently waiting longest include German Shepherds, Staffordshire bull terriers, collies, lurchers and Akitas.
• RSPCA centres are using Adoptober to profile specific larger dogs such as Nova and Ruby in North Wales and Diesel, Calypo and Simba on Teesside to reach suitable adopters.
• Officials say many rescued dogs need patient, experienced homes due to trauma-related behaviours and urge potential owners to use the charity’s Findapet listings and cost guidance.