The RSPCA has launched an appeal for people to adopt animals across North Wales and beyond that have been waiting for a home for more than 100 days.
The appeal comes as part of the charity's annual 'Adoptober' rehoming drive, which urges animal lovers to adopt from rescue centres rather than buying from breeders.
This follows a rise in the average length of time that dogs, cats, and rabbits have to wait before being adopted across England and Wales.
The RSPCA's new data reveals this has increased by nearly a third over the last five years, from 31.7 days in 2019 to 41.4 days in 2023.
The charity has revealed that, as of October 3, 118 dogs, cats, and other animals at the RSPCA's 14 national centres had been waiting for 100 days or more to be adopted.
This doesn't include the 135 independently run branches, which also look after many 'long stay' animals.
Karen Colman, who leads the RSPCA's team finding places for rescued animals, said: "We are appealing to potential adopters to, where possible, consider rehoming pets which have spent a particularly long time waiting for their forever home at our centres."
Some of the long-stay animals in Wales include Sammy, a Jack Russell terrier, who has been at the RSPCA Newport Animal Centre for more than 120 days.
He is described by Hayley Moorey, behaviour and welfare adviser, as a "typical active Jack Russell terrier with a big personality" who "loves to learn new things and take part in enrichment and other little brain games."
Rabbits Annie and Hallie, at RSPCA Bryn-y-Maen Animal Centre in Colwyn Bay, have been in the charity's care for more than 350 days without a single application.
Animal care assistant Nicole Rowson said: "Annie and Hallie are an inseparable pair who have come on leaps and bounds since being with us.
"They are both very curious and playful."
He originally came from a home where he was confined to one room with more than 10 other dogs.
His confidence is growing, and he is looking for a family who are comfortable with his "quirky personality."
Staffordshire bull terrier Billy, at RSPCA Llys Nini, has been looking for a home for 285 days.
He thrives on human companionship and has an endless supply of love to give.
His ideal home would be a quiet, rural setting where he can enjoy peaceful walks without the stress of encountering other dogs.
Prospective adopters can visit the RSPCA’s Find A Pet webpage to see all of the animals currently in the charity’s care who are looking for their perfect match.
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