Jerry Green Dog Rescue, which has one of its seven centres at Catton, near Thirsk, currently has 300 unwanted dogs in its kennels – and many more waiting for a chance to be re-homed.

The charity's chief executive, Desmond Bergin, said: "When people bring us their dogs it's increasingly lack of money they give as the reason for their decision.

"Regrettably, the family pet is finding it's being bitten by the hand that feeds it."

Mr Bergin added: "There's been an upturn in the number of dogs brought to us for the last three months, and all the kennels are now chock-a-block. People tell us they simply can't afford the bills.

"The trouble is that people don't understand that a dog isn't just a toy; it will develop problems. Unlike a Japanese car that never breaks down, a dog may need attention, and, if it's not insured, that's going to cost money."

bizarre reasons

Other reasons people give for leaving their dogs at Jerry Green Dog Rescue Centres are often bizarre, said Mr Bergin. "They say the dog's too big, too small, or even too old – and then ask if we can let them have a puppy, which of course we can't.

"Others give no reason at all, but just tie the dog to the gates when we're closed – or, unbelievably, simply throw the poor animal over the fence."

While the credit crunch and associated financial worries are posing a problem, Mr Bergin says the charity is determined to do what it can to meet the growing demand for its services.

"Fortunately we have dedicated and hard-working staff who are digging deep to keep on top of the extra workload we face," he said.

Dogs are always available for adoption to the right home and details can be found at www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk.