Staffies being dumped

Dozens of Staffordshire bull terriers are being dumped by their owners following the recent spate of dog attacks across the country.

Rescue centres have been seeing alarming numbers of the family pets handed in. They believe fears over children being mauled by pit bulls have prompted the trend.

Earlier this week the Express & Star told how Black Country dog homes were almost at full capacity. Emma Johndow, from Sunnyside Kennels in Coven said unwanted Staffies were pushing the numbers up.

Around 35 have been handed in since the beginning of the year by owners fearful of falling foul of dangerous dog laws.

Emma, senior fundraiser for Sunnyside, said today: "We have seen a significant increase in the numbers of Staffordshire bull terriers coming to us in the past month.

"We have had about 35 altogether.

"It would seem that people are struggling to distinguish between the different breeds and are panicking following the media coverage concerning pit-bull type attacks and are abandoning their dogs as a consequence.

"It's a real shame as the Staffordshire is a great companion dog and makes a wonderful pet which is very well-suited to a family environment if looked after well."

A removal firm from Stourbridge has now agreed to sponsor the kennels to help care for the unwanted dogs.

The cash from Why Wait Removals will help to home and feed two dogs a month.

Stewart Addison, a director at Why Wait Removals, said: "We are all animal lovers at the company and have been looking for a while to get involved with supporting a local, worthwhile animal charity.

"So the dog's home, given its location and what it means to the local community, seemed a logical choice.

"Also as we are all particularly fond of the Staffordshire bull terrier breed - I have one myself - it's marvellous that we have the opportunity to help in this way."

Anyone who wants to offer a home can contact Sunnyside Kennels, in Dark Lane, Coven, on 01902 790618.

By Becky Sharpe