Tears Animal Rescue, a local organisation, is currently caring for 109 dogs this winter, including 45 puppies and 64 adult dogs, which exceeds its ideal capacity of 100.The organisation is urgently appealing for more families to adopt or foster dogs to create space for animals still in need of rescue.

Junior marketing manager Dylan Malander highlighted that the shelter has been operating at or near capacity for an extended period, with more dogs arriving than leaving through adoption.

Winter is traditionally a busy time for animal welfare organisations, but this year's demand is particularly high due to economic pressures, unplanned litters, and increased pet owner assistance requests.

The organisation is also facing an unexpected surge in puppies arriving during the colder months, attributed to low sterilisation rates and lack of pet owner awareness.Malander encouraged people to consider adopting adult dogs, countering the misconception that they are difficult to integrate into family life.Adult dogs often have established personalities, making them easier to match with the right family.Every adoption helps free up space for other animals in need, and fostering is also a viable option for those unable to commit to permanent adoption.The organisation urges responsible pet ownership and sterilisation to alleviate the strain on shelters.