Pets are struggling to find new homes after their elderly owners become too sick to look after them.
Rottweiler-cross Ellie had severe osteoarthritis so she couldn't easily be rehoused after her owner broke both his ankles.
The Strand Veterinarian's Dr Megan Alderson says it's hard to find the right carers for a dog that needs expensive surgery.
"If we can't find her a home or else we can't find support from the community to help with medications and keeping her pain-free, then I think euthanasia is a really good second option."
Luckily for Ellie, she found a home.
Dr Alderson says lots of people want to take on a dog, but that's not the issue.
"Realistically having to lift them into the car, take them on special walks - a special type of person needs to look after that animal."
Dr Alderston says it's a little bit like Tinder - you've got to find the perfect match.
Newshub.
