Abandoned dogs on the rise

They could have been family pets, but five dogs have already had to be put down in Wiltshire this year because so many of a certain breed are being abandoned.

Swindon's dog wardens have told Heart it is because Staffordshire Bull Terriers are being bred too much and nobody wants them because of their reputation.

The dogs have been seen as status symbols, which has lead to people buying them but not bothering to train them up properly.

Others have bred them to make some money but found they are difficult to sell on.

Environmental Protection Officers at Swindon Borough Council say people thinking about breeding shouldn't as there are already plenty of Staffies in dog pounds waiting for a new home.