DEMAND for pets has surged since the start of the coronavirus pandemic with Dogs Trust reporting 66-per-cent more calls in 2020 than 2019. 

As we all bunker down for the foreseeable, many of us have noticed a gaping hole in our lives that can only be filled with a four-legged friend. 

With many of us spending a lot more time inside as we now work from home or only going outside for part of our daily exercise - which is more frequently a gentle walk around the block than a 5k run like we all promised ourselves. 

The prospect of adopting a needy animal into our hearts and homes has become more realistic than ever. 

Dogs Trust chief executive Owen Sharp said:  “It's no surprise that during the pandemic there has been a huge demand for dogs, as more people have been at home with time to care for a new family member, of the canine kind. 

“We saw a 66% increase in calls from members of the public looking to rehome from us in 2020 compared to 2019.

“Owning a dog is an absolutely wonderful thing, but it's also a big responsibility. Before embarking on the exciting journey of welcoming a four-legged friend into your life, it's really important to think about what life is like now and what it will be like in the future.”

Here are some of the dogs in need of their forever home at Shoreham Dogs Trust: 

Baron

The Argus:

Beautiful Baron is looking for new owners (Dogs Trust)

Baron is an adorable  four-year-old German Shepherd, who's looking for a special forever home that will have a gentle touch.

He can be worried by strangers but if you've got a pocketful of treats he'll soon come out of his shell. 

He has a lot of love to give and loves the company of humans whilst equally appreciating his own independence. 

Baron is a great traveller in the car, which is beneficial if needing to drive him to the more 'secluded' walking areas that he requires. 

To find out more about Baron visit Dogs Trust.

Biggles

The Argus:

Big energy - Biggles is looking for a lasting home (Dogs Trust)

Biggles is a two-year old Lurcher with a friendly spirited character. 

An absolute joy who loves life, Biggles can be quite accustomed to getting over excited and forgetting his manners. 

However he's got bucket-loads of love to give and really is the epitome of 'man's best friend'. 

An active family, who could offer Biggles a consistent routine and plenty of time to his training would be ideal.

Find out more about Biggles on the website.

Bronson

The Argus:

What a cutie! Could Bronson be the ideal companion for you? (Dogs Trust)

Bronson is an absolute softy who loves spending quality time with his favourite people as well as exploring on a relaxing walk. 

The lovable three-year-old Dogue de Bordeaux is a sensitive soul who tends to find much of the world overwhelming. 

A patient and understanding family who can offer Bronson a gentle approach and some time to settle in would be perfect.

To find out more information about Bronson visit the website.

Tyler

The Argus:

Stunning Tyler is in need of a forever home (Dogs Trust)

Tyler is a seven-year-old, American Bulldog Cross. He's sadly endured a lot of uncertainties in his life which has made him slightly unsure of strangers.

However this good boy has a huge heart and loves spending time with familiar humans and receiving a fuss.

Tyler is much more a fan of his people pals, so would best be suited to a home as the only dog. 

Find out more on the website.

Maggie

The Argus:

Could you be the one for Maggie? (Dogs Trust)

Magnificent Maggie is a one-year-old St Bernard who is looking to be rehomed after lockdown. 

This big girl has a big heart and possibly even bigger belly, loving nothing more than a tasty meal and long lasting chew.

Maggie can be a sensitive soul and finds it worrying when meeting new people.

She'll need patient new owners who will be able to meet her several times at the rehoming centre before taking her home. 

Her giant stature reflects her giant heart and the love she has to give, but it also means she requires a home that has enough space for her.

If you think you're the right companion for Maggie then enquire on the website.