AN ANIMAL charity is appealing for people to stop using pets as fashion accessories.

The Blue Cross Centre in Thirsk said there has been an increase in people who buy fashionable breeds and then discard them once the trend has passed.

Last year the centre admitted 18 Siberian huskies and similar breeds following the success of the Twilight films, compared to just one five years ago.

Centre manager Emma Pannell said: "While husky type dogs are certainly stunning looking dogs, they were bred to run for hundreds of miles and have high energy levels. Sadly, some people realise too late that a husky isn't the best dog for them so unhappy, frustrated dogs end up in rescue.”

The charity, is currently looking to re-home a young Siberian husky called Honey, who has been used in a puppy farm for breeding and was kept shut away until she arrived at the centre.

Honey needs experienced, patient and understanding owners to help her adapt to life in the real world.

Ms Pannell added: “We are hoping our 'passion, not fashion' campaign will encourage anyone thinking of getting a dog to look at the dog's needs before choosing one on impulse or because of the latest fad.”

Blue Cross can be followed on Twitter @The_Blue_Cross.