AN animal sanctuary has taken in a record number of puppies in the run up to Christmas.

The National Animal Sanctuary Support League, in Darlington, is used to taking in puppies after Christmas, but this year it has already been inundated with dogs.

The sanctuary is desperate to find new homes for the puppies.

Pauline Wilson, spokeswoman for the sanctuary, said she could not explain the pre-Christmas rush which the centre has experienced.

She said: "We have not had this many puppies so soon before Christmas before.

"We do get some puppies after Christmas every year, but this year we have had loads already."

The problem is made worse by owners not having their dogs spayed or neutered, either because they cannot afford it or do not realise how important it is.

Ms Wilson said: "It can be anything from £50 to £80 to get your dog treated, but it is well worth it.

"It is all part of responsible dog ownership. If your dog has an unwanted litter of eight puppies you can get really stressed and end up giving them away to anyone.

"These are the dogs that end up being mistreated or their new owners can't cope and they are abandoned. A lot of unnecessary suffering could so easily be avoided."

The league is so passionate about animal neutering that it will help those on low incomes to pay for the treatment for dogs or cats.

All the charity's own animals are treated before they are re-homed.

Ms Wilson said: "We are absolutely behind this policy. Everyone knows the message about a dog being for life not for Christmas, but the idea of neutering goes hand-in-hand with that.

"People should think very carefully before they get a dog, and once they have decided they can cope with the huge responsibility they should get their pet neutered.

"This is a life-long commitment. It is like having a child, except a child grows up and leaves home, but a dog stays around."

Anyone who would like to offer a dog or cat a home can contact the league on (01325) 321855 or 07748 268822, to find out more.