The UK is in the grips of a puppy dumping epidemic, with new research showing that one in ten puppies are requiring new homes after just one month of pet ownership.

The research has revealed the shocking number of Brits who’ve admitted to being totally unprepared when taking on a dog.  According to the report by Devon-based natural pet food makers, Forthglade, over half (54%) admit they realised taking on a dog was a mistake AS SOON as they brought the dog home, and 40% completely underestimated the commitment required to raise a happy, healthy dog.

Over a quarter (26%) said the commitment of having to be at home to look after the puppy was too much to take on. Whilst 25% stated that taking on a puppy was as hard as having a new born baby.

Forthglade published the report to mark the launch of its ‘Prepare for Puppy’ campaign, helping potential puppy owners responsibly prepare for what lies ahead. The campaign is being backed by popular TV Vet, Steve Leonard. 

With 39% of puppy owners wishing they’d known more about how to care for a puppy before they had got one, while 13% admitted they had done absolutely no research whatsoever before committing to getting a dog. Steve hopes to raise awareness on the care and consideration needed before buying a puppy.

"The results of this poll are deeply concerning’, explains Steve. ‘Unfortunately, there’s a real lack of education around what’s involved when taking on a puppy. Raising a dog of any age requires consistent gentle handling, teaching and care; and this is never more crucial than when you welcome a puppy into your family.

"Preparation is everything – from vaccinations and puppy-proofing to ensuring your dog has a nourishing, balanced diet. There will be so much to learn about your puppy, their needs, character and health.

'Getting to know your new puppy won’t happen overnight but there is nothing more heart-warming than seeing the bond between an older dog and its owner, from a lifetime working together to make each other’s lives better – and this comes from getting it right from the start.

"I hope this campaign helps to promote all the considerations necessary before people rush out and get a puppy," concludes Steve.

Gerard Lovell, Joint Managing Director at Forthglade, who commissioned the report, commented: "We know a puppy is bought with the best intentions, but when the reality of the situation hits home, that’s when panic often sets in.

"Welcoming a dog into the family can be a wonderful experience, but sadly if you’re not fully prepared, things can quickly go wrong, and this is when we see puppies being dumped at rescue centres or swiftly sold on online. 

"We hope #PrepForPup will make people stop, do more research and decide whether a puppy is truly right for them.”

The survey also revealed that more than a quarter (26%) said the amount of damage the puppy caused too to the house played a key role in them giving it away, whilst a further 24% admitted to finding puppy training a challenge. Almost a quarter (24%) said they were totally unprepared for financial outlay involved in owning a puppy – with huge vet bills and pet insurance proving too bitter a pill to swallow.

A staggering 61% said, on reflection, an older dog would have been easier than getting a lively puppy.

For more information on Forthglade’s ‘Prepare for Puppy’ campaign, visit www.forthglade.com where you’ll find lots of advice on good puppy care, an informative downloadable guide ‘One Paw at a Time’ plus short informative films.