Game of Thrones blamed for sudden rise in number of abandoned husky dogs

IS Game of Thrones responsible for an alarming new trend where dozens of pet owners are abandoning their fashionable animals?

IS Game of Thrones responsible for an alarming new trend in the UK where pet owners are abandoning their animals in droves?

The Blue Cross charity, similar to the RSPCA in Australia, said it’s seen a 700% increase in the number of husky-type dogs being given up or abandoned and said the hit TV show could be to blame, reports The Mirror.

The hit fantasy show features beautiful, white dogs known as direwolves, which are brave and intelligent.

Most of the dogs used on set are of the husky variety.

People might think the puppies look adorable, but huskies are working dogs and need plenty of mental and physical exercise.

For the first time the breed and similar types of dog have made it onto the top 10 of their dogs that need rehoming.

“Ideally they need a good couple of hours exercise every day and experienced owners who have plenty of time to spend with them, Caroline Thompson from the Blue Cross centre told The Mirror.

“Sadly, the reason we’re now seeing so many of these breeds being given up is because so many people get them without doing enough research into the kind of care they need,” she said.

Game of Thrones ... Robb and Bran Stark adopt the new-found direwolf cubs. Picture: HBO