ANIMAL charity workers have warned that the number of unwanted dogs is on the rise in Dorset.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue (MGAR) fears that the number of strays is increasing as it faces a growing number of animals brought in.

It has appealed for people to give a rescue dog a home as it has more than 30 dogs on its books.

Helen Chittock, manager of MGAR’s Lincoln Farm Centre, near Bere Regis, said: “The few months after Christmas are always a difficult time for us, both with unwanted dogs and strays.

“We aren’t sure why we see such an increase in the number of strays that come in.

“The only thing we can think is that maybe people get puppies for Christmas and decide they do not want their older dog any more, or maybe they buy a dog and decide they don’t really want it and so turn it out on to the street.”

She added: “Whatever the reason, we have more than 30 different dogs in our care at the moment, all of which are looking for loving homes.”

One dog looking for a home is Caesar, a golden German Shepherd.

When he arrived, he had two large bleeding lumps on his back and tail and he was extremely lethargic. “He was taken to the vets where he was found to have a very high temperature and needed an operation to remove the lumps. Helen said: “Caesar is a fantastic dog. He is 10 years old and still very active, he loves his walks. “He’s very affectionate, can live with children, great with other dogs and cats, is obedient on and off lead and is good in the car. “Caesar has a medical condition called EPI which stands for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. “It is easily controlled by medication being added to his food. “We are happy to fund the cost of this medication for the rest of Caesar’s life. “Caesar would be best suited to retired adopters where he can be given all the love he needs.” To find out more call 01929 471 340 or visit margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk