A LEADING Dorset animal sanctuary has issued a plea for help after an influx of young dogs has left its kennels 'bursting at the seams'.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue's (MGAR) Lincoln Farm centre, near Blandford, is currently caring for 38 rescue dogs, of which 14 are either male Staffordshire Bull Terriers or Staffie crosses who are just reaching adulthood.

MGAR Lincoln Farm deputy manager Laura Howlett said: "It is not uncommon for us to see adolescent dogs coming into rescue.

"At about 18 months old your dog is really starting to look grown up and has definitely passed the cute puppy stage.

"At this age the dogs reach sexual maturity as well and if they are not neutered they may start displaying some difficult behaviour."

The charity, that also has a sanctuary at Church Knowle, near Corfe Castle, relaunched its Save a Staffie appeal in January, in response to the continuing numbers of Staffies being abandoned.

Laura said: "We do a lot of work with our rescue dogs to train and assess them for a new life.

"In almost every case we find them a loving new home. We would love to hear from anyone that might be able to give a Staffie a home.

"In order to find these Staffies a new home as soon as possible, we fund several operations every week to neuter them.

"We neuter the dogs for a variety of reasons. It prevents unwanted puppies in a society there there are too many dogs and not enough homes.

"But it is also good for the animal's health, can prevent diseases and can affect their temperament, making them calmer and happier overall."

Two of the dogs currently waiting for new homes are Staffie crosses Radcliffe, age 20 months, and 11-month-old Steve.

To find out more about rehoming a Staffie, visit margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk or call 01929 470 340.