UNWANTED pets are being housed in "overspill kennels" at Bolton police stations as animal shelters struggle to cope.

Managers of Bolton's Destitute Animal Shelter admit they are facing a "catastrophic" situation as the number of stray cats and dogs continues to rocket.

Neil Martin, joint manager of the shelter on Northolt Drive, Great Lever, said: "The situation is worse than ever. At one stage, seven dogs had to be kept in police kennels.

"In the past we've occasionally had to temporarily house stray animals with the police but I can't remember it being as bad as it is now.

"If people bring the animals to us and we have to ask for help from the police then the animals are our responsibility. We have to feed, walk and clean them and it means members of staff going down to the station.

"The police have been excellent and the dogs are well cared for in the kennels.

"Last year was bad but now the situation is catastrophic. We're absolutely full up with unwanted animals. I call it the disposable pet syndrome. People are more and more prepared to get rid of a dog because it doesn't fit in 100pc with their lifestyle."

Stray dogs have been kept in kennels at Farnworth, Astley Bridge and Central police stations.

The Bank Holiday was particularly bad when seven dogs had to be housed in police kennels because there was no room at the shelter.

Superintendent Stuart Bailey of Astley Bridge police station said: "We're always willing to help anyone in the short term get over a crisis while they look for a long-term solution."

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