An influx of 'Covid dogs' has exacerbated the issue.
Unwanted dogs are being sent to Italy and Sweden, because they can't find a home in Ireland.
There's been a spike in pets returned to shelters during the pandemic, known as 'covid dogs,' which has seen shelters plea for homes to submit a foster application.
Greyhounds, Pitbulls and Staffys are the hardest to rehome, according to Billy Gallagher of Athlone Animal Haven.
The organisation's chairperson says there's too many people buying a dog without realising the challenges that come with it:
Planning Permission Approved For New 800 Pupil Secondary School In Midlands
Annual Rose Of Tralee Tour Underway
Longford-Westmeath TD Urges Action On Vacant HSE-Owned Buildings
Taoiseach Backs Offaly Camino Proposal
Laois Pride Launch Writing Competition In Memory Of Joe Drennan
Laois Truck Driver Arrested For Driving Overweight Truck Under Influence
Offaly Business Closed Over Food Safety Breach
Gardai Continuing Laois Meadow Fire Investigation