11 adorable dogs at Cheshire Dogs’ Home in Warrington

Alisha Davis visits Cheshire Dogs’ Home in Warrington and meets some four-legged friends looking for their human companion.

For a dog lover like me - and possibly you - giving up a beloved pet is unthinkable. But each year more than 250,000 dogs throughout the UK find themselves homeless, and without places like Cheshire Dogs' Home in Warrington, their futures could be far bleaker.

The home has been taking in stray dogs in its current location for nearly 21 years, and although it's in partnership with the council in its efforts to keep strays off the street, it's funded entirely on donations, both financial and more personal. The home relies on more than 80 volunteers to donate their time to walk the dogs, show them love and even spend time reading to them.

'Our volunteers help us massively when it comes to fundraising,' says the home's manager, Anna Stansfield. 'Throughout the year we hold numerous events, one being our summer fair hosted here at the home. Volunteers and workers love it as we're often visited by ex-residents. When an ex-resident comes back and is unrecognisable, it's the most wonderful feeling and makes our work worthwhile.'

The rescue centre can keep up to a maximum of 120 dogs, which means they have given thousands of dogs a second chance at creating new and happy lives. 'Over the years we've seen a range of different breeds come to us. At the moment, we're seeing an increase in Huskies and Akitas. Dogs like these need a lot of stimulation and exercise. Without that, they can become quite destructive and develop behavioural issues, which often leads to them being given up.'

Analysing the dogs' behaviour is a key element of the re-homing process. The canine carers make an effort to really know the dogs' needs and wants so that when it comes to potential adopters, a perfect match can be made.

If you're thinking of adopting a rescue dog, do your due diligence and consider whether you have the time and effort to offer them the care and attention they need. Interested? Meet eleven potential canine companions looking for a home right now…