Budding pet owners are being urged to consider rehoming one of the many animals being cared for by the SPCA.

The call has come from Martin Docherty-Hughes MP who has praised the work of the Scottish SPCA after visiting the animal welfare charity’s rehoming centre in Dumbarton.

The MP for West Dunbartonshire said: “A huge thanks to the team at the SPCA for a very warm welcome to West Dunbartonshire’s animal rescue and rehoming centre.

“I was pleased to catch-up with the team and discuss a number of important animal welfare issues including the impact of illegal puppy farming.

“There is clear evidence that irresponsible dog breeding harms animals, so it’s important to do your research first and avoid buying from unreputable sources.

“The rehoming centre in Milton do a fantastic job of caring for hundreds of animals including cats, dogs and exotic pets.

“Rescue pets make great companions.”

Ms Campbell said the charity was delighted to welcome Mr Docherty-Hughes to the Dumbarton centre.

She added: “It’s great to be able to showcase the fabulous work done by the team here at the centre and talk more widely about the society’s aims from increasing the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty to tackling the illegal puppy trade.”