Dogs Trust launches Ireland’s first-ever dog census

Today, Dogs Trust has launched Ireland’s Dog Census, a first of its kind initiative in Ireland.

They are calling on the dog-loving public to help them ‘Count every dog, so every dog counts.’

The short questionnaire can be completed by those who currently have a canine companion, as well as those who love dogs but don’t necessarily have one in their lives.  

The aim of this new project is to fill knowledge gaps on Ireland’s owned dog population and their needs. 

The landscape for our canine companions is constantly evolving and the charity wants to understand more about how issues like the cost of living and scarcity in the housing market are affecting dogs and their owners.  

By completing the survey and sharing their views, dog owners and dog lovers will enable Dogs Trust to gain a deeper understanding of what Ireland’s dogs truly need.

This will give the charity a clearer picture, allowing them to offer better support and services so more dogs can live life to the full.

The charity wants to help keep more dogs and their owners together, and to support owners who may be struggling with the pooches that they love.

The insights gathered from Ireland’s Dog Census will also be used to provide helpful advice for dog owners. 

Dogs Trust has said that Ireland is in the midst of what can only be described as a dog crisis.

A recent survey by the charity showed that more than 1 in 10 people have considered giving up their dog. Surrender and abandonment rates of dogs are still too high, with Dogs Trust receiving 2,366 requests from people looking to surrender dogs into their care in 2024. 

One such dog is Teddy, an abandoned puppy who was found alone in a Dublin industrial estate at just 10 weeks old.

Once in Dogs Trust’s care, he received veterinary treatment and found a forever home when he was ready.  

With no history of Teddy, the charity has limited information on what would lead someone to abandon him at such a young age. 

Paulina Padlo, Communications Manager, Dogs Trust Ireland, says: “Ireland’s Dog Census is a first of its kind initiative that can help us shape the campaigns, services and support we offer.

“Sadly, Ireland is still in the midst of a dog crisis and we’re seeing hundreds of surrender and abandonment cases every month.

“Dog welfare is an ever-changing landscape and having the most up-to-date and accurate information about the lives of our canine companions can go a long way in helping us to help them.

“We’re asking dog owners and dog lovers alike to tell us about the furry friends in their lives so that we can help every dog live life to the fullest.” 

Dogs Trust is asking members of the public to fill out the short questionnaire and help to shape the future of dog welfare in Ireland. In doing so, you will be helping the charity to ‘Count every dog, so every dog counts’.

For more information and to take part, please go to www.DogCensus.ie.