AN UNPRECEDENTED rise in bull breeds being brought into shelters has led to damaging effects on the animals' mental health.
One American Bull Dog, Tupper, was found recently tied at a gate not far from Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter and was described as looking thin.
Tupper struggled to adjust to shelter life and started to develop behavioural issues.
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Amie Jones, shelter operations manager, at the site in Newland, Malvern, said: "His behaviour declined every day.
"He was very people-orientated.
"I guess he could not deal with it, and he deteriorated.
"Bull breeds are very people-orientated, and kennels are not good for their welfare.
"It is heartbreaking - it is heartbreaking for the dogs, and it affects us.
"It has a dramatic effect on all of us as we are here every day.
"Some dogs do better than others."
Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter said it has received a huge rise in bull breeds and large dogs being brought in.
And the phone does not stop ringing with more people looking to get rid of the breed.
Ms Jones added: "The number of bull breeds needing help is really high.
"We have seen an increase in strays, especially bull breeds which has been since peak summer.
"We always try to keep a few on-site as they are harder to rehome."
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The reason behind the rise in bull breeds in shelters has been put down to multiple factors.
Ms Jones said people are struggling with the cost to feed a larger dog.
For those who own dogs with behavioural issues, owners struggle to afford a behaviourist.
There is also an increase in people who are breeding dogs for profit but, with fewer people being able to afford a pet in the cost of living crisis, litters are being abandoned or handed in.
Ms Jones advised anyone who is looking to buy a bull breed to do their research beforehand and get in contact with their local dog rescue and vet.
She advised people to only use registered breeders, to see both parents, and check if the animal has been health checked and microchipped.
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