Rescue ‘flooded’ with Staffies

AN ANIMAL refuge is taking in record numbers of Staffordshire Bull Terriers, following a sharp rise the breed's popularity.

Birmingham Dogs’ Home has taken in 200 unwanted pets in the last two weeks and at least 40% were Staffordshire Bull Terriers or Stafford crosses. The breed is particularly popular in the Midlands, where its home county of Staffordshire is located.

David Grant, a senior vet at the home, called the situation ‘totally out of control’. ‘It is the worst I have seen in 40 years as a vet,’ he said.

The breed's fashionableness has led to a sharp rise in the number being bred by ‘backyard breeders’, who often sell Stafford pups for as much as £500 each. ’