To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Peter Dinklage Is Begging 'GOT' Fans Not To Buy Huskies Just Because They Look Like Direwolves

Peter Dinklage Is Begging 'GOT' Fans Not To Buy Huskies Just Because They Look Like Direwolves

He wants to know that a dog is a lifelong commitment

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage has spoken out, urging fans of the show not to buy huskies just because they look like direwolves.

As a result of the massive success of the HBO show, there's been a huge surge in demand for husky pups because they look like the direwolves of Westeros.


via GIPHY

Of course, they're not just cute little props from the show, and once owners are realising how much work is involved in looking after their new pet the poor animals are being dumped at animal shelters.

According to the Mirror, since 2011 (when Game of Thrones first aired) animal shelters in the UK have seen a 700 percent rise in the number of abandoned huskies.

It's a similar story across the pond, where two specialist husky rescue groups have said their numbers have doubled.

Credit: PA

So, Peter, who plays Tyrion Lannister, has teamed up with animal rights group PETA US to plead with fans to think before they rush out and buy a husky puppy, reminding them that it's a lifelong commitment.

The campaign will also urge those who are set on getting a new dog to adopt one from a shelter rather than paying a breeder or pet shop.

He said: "Please, to all of Game of Thrones' many wonderful fans, we understand that due to the direwolves' huge popularity, many folks are going out and buying huskies.


via GIPHY

"Not only does this hurt all the deserving homeless dogs waiting for a chance at a good home in shelters, but shelters are also reporting that many of these huskies are being abandoned - as often happens when dogs are bought on impulse, without understanding their needs.

"Please, please, if you're going to bring a dog into your family, make sure that you're prepared for such a tremendous responsibility and remember to always, always, adopt from a shelter."

Dogs are a life-long commitment. Credit: PA

PETA say this isn't the first time popular culture has caused an influx of abandoned dog breeds, saying that Men in Black, Legally Blonde and 101 Dalmatians have all caused similar patterns.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Game of Thrones