Linda Martin yesterday warned dog lovers not to buy pets from puppy farms.
The Eurovision winner – who is opening her own sanctuary in Co Dublin – said anyone concerned about animal welfare should avoid these producers.
She told the Irish Mirror: “When people buy from a puppy farm they contribute to the ongoing problem of unwanted dogs.
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“People buy puppies for their kids but the kids can tire of them and then the parents try to give them away to rescue centres. But the rescue centres are full.”
Linda, 71, who has 13 rescue dogs of her own, has always been passionate about animal welfare and is working to open her Dublin Dog Hub soon.
She currently needs volunteers and people to fundraise.
Meanwhile, the DSPCA is encouraging people to consider fostering an animal as the number of strays at its shelter remains high after hitting capacity last month. Spokeswoman Gillian Bird said short- term fostering can be a great asset to families unsure about adopting.
She added: “We’re still rehoming but we’re also moving into a new season - that’s why there’s a bit of a push so there’s time to get our fosterers lined up.
“Fostering is a good idea as it can help people realise ahead of time it might not work out after the first week or so.”
Gillian said families should approach fostering with the mind set that the pet needs a temporary home. However, she admitted it is common for people to have a change of heart and adopt the new addition as a permanent member of the family.
She added: “People who adopt their foster pets are often jokingly called ‘failed fosterers.’ Whether people decide to do that or stick to the short term fostering, it’s a really good experience for people and a valuable life lesson.”
People interested in fostering should fill out an application form with the DSPCA. There are some guidelines to keep in mind before applying.
Fosterers must be 18 and ideally have their own transport, as pets are sometimes required to return to the DSPCA for vaccinations and routine check ups.
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