Dogs Trust Ballymena is calling on local dog lovers to take part in the biggest ever nationwide survey to help dogs and owners of the future.
The 2023 National Dog Survey will help the charity better-understand the UK’s estimated 13 million-strong pooch population and the part dogs play in their owners’ lives, shaping the support the charity offers to canine companions and their families.
This will be the second time Dogs Trust has called on dog owners to provide feedback about their furry friends, after the inaugural National Dog Survey was launched two years ago.
Over 350,000 people completed the 2021 National Dog Survey, and the charity is hoping for an even bigger response this year. Following the 2021 survey, Dogs Trust has created new services to help the nation’s dog owners - including cost-of-living support, Reactive Dog Classes, and a new, free to access, Behavioural Support Line.
Staffed by specialist Behaviour Support Line Officers equipped with a range of behaviour qualifications and expertise – including animal behaviour degrees, dog behaviour accreditations, and hands-on experience – the support line has already helped thousands of owners and their previously problematic pups.
Conor O’Kane, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ballymena, said:
“Over 350,000 people responded to our first National Dog Survey, giving us a real insight into how people care for their dogs here in the UK.
“We’ve since used all that we learnt to launch new services providing tangible support to dogs and their owners, including our Behaviour Support Line, helping them to tackle behaviour-related issues before they turn into real problems.
“What owners tell us through the National Dog Survey this year will again shape the future services provided by Dogs Trust so we can continue to support the nation’s dogs and their owners.”
The 2023 National Dog Survey is open until 18th June and covers topics including behaviour, breed information and how people like to interact with their four-legged friends.
The survey can be completed online at www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk, and takes around 10 minutes to complete.
Conor added: “We want to build a complete picture of what dog ownership looks like today and ensure we can provide dog owners with the support they need.
“The 2023 National Dog Survey only takes 10 minutes, and it couldn’t be easier to fill in.
“So, whether you complete it while having a cuppa, waiting for the bus, or on your lunch break, you will be making a real positive impact on the lives of dogs and humans.”
For more information and to take part in the National Dog Survey, visit www.nationaldogsurvey.org.uk.
The closing date is 18th June.