A CHARITY which has helped rehome unwanted dogs for more than 10 years is urging people to consider the commitment needed before taking on a pet.

Ryedale Dog Rescue (RDR) was set up by a group of six volunteers in 2005, and has grown from homing 12 dogs in the first year, to about 80 dogs annually.

Rosie Stephenson, from the charity, said it was run entirely by volunteers.

“I got involved about six months after it had been set up as I had just got a rescue dog and decided to go along to support one of their events,” she said.

“I had just done a degree in canine behaviour and started chatting to other volunteers and offered my help if anyone was ever needed to bake a cake or make a cup of tea and it went from there.”

Rosie said they raised all their own funds through a variety of events and had a good group of supporters.

“All the proceeds go directly to saving the lives of abandoned and unwanted dogs and finding them new forever homes,” she said.

“Welfare is of top priority to us and we pride ourselves on giving the dogs top quality veterinary care while they await their new homes in high quality kennels.

“We also have a non-destruction policy, which means that any dog taken into its care will never be destroyed. Once they are in our care they are safe.”

Rosie said one of their newest arrivals was a puppy named Pringle, who was picked up on December 30.

“As it was only five days after Christmas he was probably bought as a present, and then when the owners realised he needed training or they had to go back to work and would have no-one to look after him, they decided to abandon him,” she said.

“We get the same problem with older dogs who are no longer considered cute and are facing vet or kennel bills.”

Rosie said fortunately a good home had been found for Pringle. She said anyone considering getting a dog needed to think about their circumstances and how a pet would fit into their lifestyle.

“For every home there is a dog and for every dog there is a home,” she said.

“If I ever have any doubts as to why I do this I only have to look into the eye of my rescue dogs and see them so happy and it reminds me what a worthwhile job it is.”

For more information on Ryedale Dog Rescue, phone Rosie Stephenson on on 07581 324153 or go to ryedaledogrescue.com