Number of stray dogs found in Bolton being put to sleep is increasing
The number of stray dogs being put down doubled in the last year, new figures have revealed.
A request made under the Freedom of Information Act has released data on the number of stray or abandoned dogs found by Bolton Council over the last three years.
A spokesperson for the council said that if they cannot find the dog's owner within seven days they are handed over to Manchester Dogs Home.
In 2023, there were 156 stray, abandoned or lost dogs found – 61 were returned to their owners and 15 were euthanised.
The following year, 158 were found – 41 were returned to their owners and 30 were euthanised.
In 2025 so far – 43 dogs have been found – with 19 returned to their owners and eight euthanised.
A spokesperson for Manchester Dogs Home said that the figures were 'not surprising' and that they've seen an increase in dogs with health problems.
They said: 'Due to the economic downturn and high veterinary fees we've seen a marked increase in dogs with multiple health problems.
'We are also finding that many people are not vaccinating their dogs, again almost certainly due to the economic downturn, which is also contributing to deadly diseases.
Have a story? Get in touch at eoin.mccaul@newsquest.co.uk
'In 2024 alone, our charity has seen veterinary costs increase significantly and we have spent over £300,000 due to medical costs.'
They added that there has been an increase in dogs entering their care after the ban on XL Bully dogs at the end of 2023.
The spokesperson said that both of these had led to fewer people claiming strays and an increase in dogs being euthanised.
READ MORE: Free cat health clinic by RSPCA at Walkden Shopping Centre
READ MORE: Neighbours' shock after XL Bully attack in Horwich
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The spokeperson said: 'We give every dog that comes into our care the best chance, but unfortunately each dog that comes under the Dangerous Dog Act is out of our hands and the law has to be followed.
'Euthanasia due to medical grounds would be a decision for our vet.
'The other factor is that a dog may be euthanised due to aggression, we are very lucky that we are able to work with the vast majority of dogs that come into our care and we have an assessment process with our dedicated team before any decision is made but we do also check with the veterinary team in case the cause of the aggression is medical.'
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