One husky is abandoned every nine days in WA, are shows like Game of Thrones to blame?
- sheridandinsdale
- Oct 13, 2017
- 2 min read
Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage and PETA claim that dire wolf look alike huskies are frequently abandoned across America, and it seems it’s no different in WA.
Across America the demand for huskies has increased because of their resemblance to the Game of Thrones dire wolf, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
PETA has teamed up with Peter Dinklage, who plays Tyrion Lannister on Game of Thrones, to urge fans to consider the long-term responsibilities of owning a dog before bringing one into their family.
In a statement released by PETA, Mr Dinklage has spoken out saying that huskies are being abandoned in shelters because owners don’t understand the needs of the breed before buying them on impulse.
It’s not only American huskies being abandoned, according to Daren Yhap, a volunteer for Husky and Malamute Rescue Western Australia (HAMR) they rescue one unwanted husky every nine days across the state.
When asked if he believes if shows such as Game of Thrones have increased the interest in the breed Mr Yhap says, “maybe, but people getting huskies because of their wolf-like appearance is nothing new.”
Mr Yhap does agree that people get huskies on a whim without understanding what it takes to own one.
“People don’t do their research before bringing a husky into their home, they don’t realise how much love and work goes into looking after one and instead of putting in the time they just give up,” he says.
People offer lots of reasons why they give up their huskies and Mr Yhap has heard them all, he says some people have genuine reasons but mostly people don't want to put in the effort.
“Like most breeds it takes huskies until they are about three-years-old to settle down and if you give them the attention they need you will be rewarded with a loving four-legged member of the family,” he says.
Since 2015 HMAR volunteers have been dedicated to rescuing and re-homing huskies that have been surrendered to them directly by their owners or been abandoned at local pounds.
Mr Yhap says each rescue dog is fully vet checked, sterilised, vaccinated and groomed before being placed in a foster home while they find a suitable “furever” family to adopt them.
Game of Thrones may not be to blame but no matter the reason there are many unwanted huskies across WA, to find out how you can help these dogs find their “furever” home visit HAMR.
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