By KLTV Newsdesk –

Record numbers of dogs in care as nine-year-old Paddy waits for his forever home

The RSPCA is calling on animal lovers to consider adopting “every kind” of dog this Adoptober, as the charity faces record numbers of animals in its care.

Among those still searching for a family is Paddy, a nine-year-old crossbreed who has been waiting 182 days for a home through the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield & Bradford Branch.

Described as a “loving and happy boy”, Paddy is hoping this month’s rehoming campaign will bring him the second chance he deserves.

A growing rehoming crisis

In 2024, the RSPCA rehomed 26,167 animals across England and Wales.

But despite those successes, the charity says it is now at breaking point, with more dogs than ever needing specialist care and homes.

New data reveals that larger breeds can take up to seven times longer to be rehomed compared to smaller dogs, leaving many animals in limbo.

Dr Sam Gaines, RSPCA pet behaviour expert, explained: “We urgently need homes for big dogs, who can wait seven times longer than smaller dogs to find their forever home.

“We are in an unprecedented rehoming crisis as several large-scale cruelty and neglect cases have led to record numbers of dogs and cats in our care, and we are at risk of running out of space.

“We desperately need adopters now more than ever, so we can continue to rescue and care for the animals who need us.

“Our unique and special dogs may not be the right pet for everyone. Some need some extra help to recover from their past, some are misunderstood because of the way they look, and others need quiet homes or families who can match their energy.

“But we know the right people are out there and urgently need to hear from them. Gentle giants, big softies and larger than life characters; we’ve got every kind of big dog, each one is unique, special and deserves a second chance at happiness.”

Meet Paddy: the steady, sofa-loving companion.

Paddy’s carers at the Halifax, Huddersfield & Bradford Branch describe him as gentle, affectionate and food-motivated.

Fay Gibbons from the branch said, “Paddy is such a wonderful boy, and we can’t wait to see him in his forever home.

“Paddy walks really nicely on lead and really enjoys taking his time to enjoy all the sniffs when he is out. He is a steady little boy and likes to keep up with what is going on in the world. He loves to be around people, and the more time he spends with them, the happier he is. He likes to cuddle up on the sofa once he is settled, too.

“He would like a secure garden in his new home, and this will also help with his housetraining. He also enjoys playing fetch with a ball, and the garden would be handy so he can do this off-leash. He is a massive foody and will try anything for a treat – food is the way to his heart!”

Paddy would prefer to be the only pet but could live with older children or teenagers. He is happy travelling in the car and can be left for short periods.

As an older dog, he can also be adopted through the EARS scheme, available to residents in Halifax, Huddersfield and Bradford, which offers reduced vet consultation fees and medication at cost price.

Thinking about adoption?

The RSPCA reminds anyone considering adoption to carefully weigh up the long-term costs and responsibilities.

Its pet cost calculator can help families plan, while pet insurance is advised to prepare for unexpected expenses.

For more information about Paddy or to submit an application, contact the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield & Bradford Branch or visit their website.