THE recesssion may be one reason why there has been a huge increase in the number of stray dogs wandering the streets of Worcestershire, says a charity.

A new survey has revealed that 18,805 strays were picked up in the Midlands during the past year, a 25 per cent increase on the previous year.

Of those homeless dogs, 914 had to be put to sleep.

Staff at the Dogs Trust rehoming centre in Eve-sham say the sheer number of dogs passing through its doors reflects the dire situation. The centre – which is currently caring for 102 dogs – rehomes an average of 1,000 dogs a year.

Already this year it has found homes for more than 660 unwanted puppies and this is before figures surge around Christmas.

Shauna Stedman, supporter relations officer at the Evesham centre, said: “There has been a rise in stray dogs coming through our doors. It’s gone up right across the Midlands and we think the increase is due to the recession, as well as the issue of micro-chipping.”

A change in the law means police are no longer legally obliged to pick up stray dogs and lost dogs that are not chipped will often end up in kennels such as the Dogs Trust centre.

“We do have a waiting list of people who want to rehouse their dogs.

“There are many reasons why. Some people are moving into rented accommodation, others just can’t cope with a dog at home during the school summer holidays or didn’t realise the costs of keeping a dog. People need to realise a dog is a big responsibility.”

The survey, conducted by GfK NOP on behalf of the Dogs Trust, showed that more than 9,000 unclaimed stray dogs were put to sleep by local authorities nationwide and an average of 52 abandoned dogs are being handled by councils in the Midlands every day.

The charity is now calling on the Government to introduce compulsory microchipping which helps reunite owners with lost animals and trace abandoned pets back to irresponsible owners.

For more information about stray dogs call the Evesham Dogs Trust centre on 01386 834875 or visit dogstrust.org.uk to see the animals which need a new home.

Case study: Bella Nine year-old Bella arrived at the Dogs Trust centre in Evesham more than a month a go.

The Staffordshire bull terrier, who is described as a worried animal and dislikes living in kennels, was brought in as a stray.

She needs a loving adults-only home where there are no other dogs and certainly no cats.

If you can give Bella a loving new home call the Dogs Trust on 01386 83487.