How the housing crisis led to these dogs spending this Christmas homeless
Housing issues are not just for humans. They also drive dogs into homelessness. Dogs Trust has stepped in to provide shelter for these four pooches. Here’s why they’re homeless this Christmas
by:
6 Dec 2025
Lurcher Wilbur was housed at Dogs Trust Kenilworth after a change in rental agreement meant his owners had to give him up. Image: Dogs Trust
But it’s not just humans who face housing issues. The housing crisis is part of the reason why people are forced to give up their dog to charities like Dogs Trust.
The charity cared for more than 11,700 dogs last year across its 22 rehoming centres in the UK and Ireland, alongside its network of volunteer foster carers. Dogs Trust went on to rehome 9,914 dogs.
While the most common reasons for giving up a dog were no longer being able to cope with dog ownership and unwanted behaviours, a change in accommodation was among the top five affecting 3.2% of cases.
This week’s Big Issue magazine looks at how the Renters’ Rights Act means that renters will get the right to request keeping a pet and may no longer have to give up their dog to get a home.
As part of our coverage, Dogs Trust shared stories of dogs they are currently caring for who have fallen into homelessness.
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The Renters’ Rights Act may have meant that dogs like Wilbur won’t need to be rehomed. Image: Dogs Trust
Wilbur is a charming, one-year-old Lurcher who came into the care of Dogs Trust Kenilworth after a change in rental agreement meant his owners were no longer able to keep him.
He is playful, eager, and still learning about the world, and is searching for a patient, fun-loving family to help him grow into his best self.
Wilbur’s ideal family will help him build confidence, especially when it comes to being left alone, which will need to be introduced very gradually. A secure garden is a must for this zoom-loving boy! He also has an old leg injury that isn’t currently affecting him, but his future owners should be prepared for the possibility of future care.
Daisy’s owner faced the heartbreaking choice to choose between eviction or rehoming her. Image: Dogs Trust
Daisy came into the care of Dogs Trust Merseyside when her owner’s landlord refused permission for pets in the home. Her previous owner had to choose between eviction or rehoming Daisy.
This sweet, affectionate girl is full of enthusiasm, but Daisy can be a little mouthy when excited, so gentle, low-key affection suits her best. She’s highly food-motivated, making treats a great tool for training and building a bond.
Daisy’s old owner saw request to keep her refused by their landlord. Under new laws, landlords will only be able to reject a request if it is ‘unreasonable’. Image: Dogs Trust
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Nala is a stunning two-year-old husky with a sensitive nature and a big heart. She came into the care of Dogs Trust Basildon as her owners’ new housing association agreement wouldn’t allow dogs to be kept on the property.
The world can feel a little overwhelming for her, so she’s looking for a calm, patient home where she can settle in at her own pace. New people, sudden noises, and busy environments can make her nervous, so slow, positive introductions will be key to helping her feel safe.
Nala, a two-year-old husky is looking for a garden to build up her confidence when she leaves Dogs Trust Basildon. Image: Dogs Trust
She’d be happiest as the only pet in a peaceful, pet-free home, and could live with children aged 14-plus who understand when she needs space. A secure, private garden is essential and her alone time will need to be built up gradually to help her feel confident when left.
Kel came to Dogs Trust Basildon when his owner made the heart-breaking choice to give him up after falling into homelessness. Image: Dogs Trust
Kel is a charming five-year-old greyhound with a big personality and an even bigger heart. Sadly, his previous owner had become homeless and was unable to continue to give Kel the care he needed so was handed over to Dogs Trust Basildon.
Greyhound Kel has a ‘big personality and an even bigger heart’ according to Dogs Trust. Image: Dogs Trust
Confident and excitable when meeting new people, Kel loves to make friends and is always up for a bit of fuss and attention. He has a moderate energy level, enjoying his daily walks and bursts of play before settling down for a well-deserved nap. Kel cannot live with cats, dogs, or small furries due to his strong prey drive, but he could share his home with children aged 11 and over who can understand his space and energy needs. A secure garden is a must for this boy, giving him a safe place to stretch his legs and enjoy some off-lead time.
For more unmissable coverage on dogs this Christmas, get a copy of this week’s Big Issue magazine, available now from Big Issue vendors and Big Issue Shop.
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