THE number of dogs being abandoned across the Tendring district is increasing dramatically, according to a rescue centre owner.

Maureen Taylor, of Mistley Place Park, helps rehome dogs which are left at her door.

In the past six months, she said the number of stray dogs left at the park had been “non-stop”.

“It is terrible,” she said. “We seem to have so many terrier crosses and also Staffies and Staffie crosses."

If the dogs are not claimed, Mrs Taylor helps them put on weight and get over nerves, before getting them spayed and vaccinated and rehoming them.

“Part of it is down to people not realising what a responsibility an animal is,” she said.

“But also some of it is people losing their home and moving into rented accommodation where dogs are not allowed. People haven’t got a lot of money and can’t afford to feed them.”