LITTLE Valley Animal Shelter near Exeter had a visit this month from local MP Mel Stride, who met with CEO Hugh Lowson and Carol Allan, Chairman of the South, East and West Devon Branch of the RSPCA.

The Member of Parliament for Central Devon was given a tour of the shelter and asked about the problem of “pandemic puppies” and other pets bought or adopted during the pandemic but since given up by their owners as lockdown restrictions were lifted.

Mel said: “I completely understand why many people, cut off from family and friends, adopted or bought a pet during lockdown.

“But this demand pushed up the value of puppies in particular, fuelling the problem of pet theft and creating a perfect storm for unscrupulous breeders who had no concern for the welfare of their animals.

“It was a relief to hear this has not been a major problem locally, but there are still many animals waiting to find a loving home.”

Carol said: “We were very pleased to show Mel around the shelter and introduce him to some of the animals waiting for adoption.

“It was also useful to discuss some of the challenges we face in terms of sustainability, not least the huge interruption we have experienced to our traditional fundraising methods and our escalating running costs.”

Anyone who may be able to provide a loving home for any of the dogs currently available for adoption at Little Valley should visit: www.rspca-littlevalley.org.uk .

Alternatively you can support the Shelter by becoming a Friend of Little Valley for £7 a year or by joining the RSPCA by visiting: www.rspca.org.uk .