THE public has been urged not to make an "impulsive decision" to get a pet as new figures show a surge in interest in adopting a puppy.
The Kennel Club said that with people staying at home due to the Covid-19 lockdown, it was "unsurprising" that more were considering getting a dog, but that no-one should rush into such a move.
It said its latest figures show that searches via its "find a puppy" tool had risen by 53 per cent between February and March, with the biggest hike in the week before prime minister Boris Johnson announced the lockdown.
MORE NEWS:
- In the Dock: Thug jailed for attack while on licence
- NHS worker can't get to work after car 'stolen' and 'badly damaged' in Pontypool
- Free childcare for Wales' key workers in coronavirus pandemic
Searches between March 16-23 were up 37 per cent compared to the previous week, and up 84 per cent on the same week last year.
The top three most searched-for breeds are Labradors, cocker spaniels and golden retrievers, it added.
Holly Conway, head of public affairs at the Kennel Club said: "With people staying at home, meaning they have more time on their hands and to spend with family, it's perhaps unsurprising that some are thinking about getting a puppy.
"While we would underline that now isn't the right time to bring home a puppy, or make an impulsive decision to get a pet, these figures could be a sign of more people looking to find a breeder directly in the future, which is extremely positive."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here