A Dorset animal rescue centre says the number of young dogs it is caring for 'has been the highest we’ve ever seen' as it appeals for new donations.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue takes in animals which have become homeless, including those who have been mistreated, negelected and abandoned.

It has two rehoming centres in Dorset - near Wareham and at Winterborne Kingston, near Blandford - and another in Tavistock, Devon. 

For the past few months, it says that the number of very young and adolescent dogs arriving has been the highest it has experienced as supply exceeds demand. 

It says that the youngsters would have been worth 'a fortune' to breeders a few years ago but now their demand and selling value has 'slumped', leading to more ending up in rescue centres.

A donation can help Margaret Green look after abandoned puppies like the below who have recently arrived into the Dorset centre:

Bubbles, Bertie & Buttercup

The 'innocent' trio were said to arrive feeling 'scared and overwhelmed' with 'nobody caring for their needs'. 

The French Bulldog cross siblings were brought in after they were found huddled together in a cardboard box. 

At just eight weeks old, they had been carelessly dumped in a layby – no longer carrying the high value price tags they would have had during the height of the pandemic.

Thankfully, dedicated teams have ensured the puppies are receiving warmth, good food and love. 

Dorset Echo: The French Bulldog cross siblings were brought in after they were found huddled together in a cardboard box. The French Bulldog cross siblings were brought in after they were found huddled together in a cardboard box.  (Image: Margaret Green Rescue Centre)

Schnitzel

The giant crossbreed puppy was found wandering alone after being abandoned at just six months old.

Described as a 'gentle giant', Schnitzel was forced to fend for itself.

"Even though Schnitzel was a joy to care for, it was heartbreaking to know that this poor pup had been discarded," Margaret Green Animal Rescue said.

"The circumstances we’ve seen over the last six months give a strong indication that we are likely to see this situation repeating itself as the oversaturation of the puppy market continues."

Dorset Echo: Described as a 'gentle giant', Schnitzel was forced to fend for itself.Described as a 'gentle giant', Schnitzel was forced to fend for itself. (Image: Margaret Green Rescue Centre)

Fliss

This 'beautiful' French Bulldog came into care after being abandoned at just a year old. 

Suffering from leg and hip deformities, an x-ray was carried out which discovered the pooch sadly suffers from lifelong disability.

Rescue teams say she 'doesn’t let these deformities stop her' and she still wants to be involved in all aspects of life and play.

"Thankfully, Fliss currently isn't in any pain as she has adapted so well, but her exercise and playtime will always need to be managed and it is likely that she will get early onset arthritis as a result of her conditions," the centre said.

"We are so pleased that Fliss has taken everything in her stride and continues to amaze us all with her courage and love for those around her.

"Sadly though, this is just another example of how dogs are being bred irresponsibly and even the most 'desirable' youngsters are ending up in our care.

"By donating you will be playing an important part in helping us to provide the care and consistency that is so important for dogs during this young stage."

Dorset Echo: This 'beautiful' French Bulldog came into care after being abandoned at just a year old. This 'beautiful' French Bulldog came into care after being abandoned at just a year old.  (Image: Margaret Green Rescue Centre)