THE upcoming release of Disney's 102 Dalmatians has prompted a dog welfare charity to warn parents not to rush into buying one of the cute animals.

The National Canine Defence League (NCDL) is concerned because after the first film, 101 Dalmatians, dozens of the dogs were bought and then abandoned by people.

Although the dogs make lovable puppies, when they get older, they require a lot more attention and exercise.

In a bid to prevent a repeat, the NCDL has joined forces with Disney to make an advertisement, which will be shown before the film, opening tomorrow.

It warns people about rushing to buy a dog which they may not be able to cope with in later life.

Catherine Gillie, manager at the NCDL Darlington Rehoming Centre, said they received a lot of dalmatians after the first film was released.

"Dalmatians are very active dogs, which used to be bred to run behind horses," she said.

"They need a lot of exercise and, hopefully, the advertisement before the film will make people think carefully before they go out to buy a dog for Christmas.

"Owning a dalmatian is a big responsibility, and people should realise that they will have to look after one for up to 15 years."