Ms Vermaak said New Zealand Pug Rescue had been caring for pugs abandoned around the country since the 1990s.
She said their work was very valuable.
"They are doing such an amazing job in giving these adorable little dogs a second chance.
"Their expenses are astronomical, especially the medical and vet bills."
Pugs were a popular and much-adored breed, but prone to expensive health issues, especially when purchased from a less than responsible breeder.
Sometimes that meant buyers wound up abandoning the dogs because they could not afford the medical bills, Ms Vermaak said.
Pug Rescue gave the example of two of its latest rescues. Both were ex-breeding dogs but had serious, unresolved health issues when they arrived after their owner died.
One of the dogs had more than 26 pages of vet history for just three years.
The other had a history of eye problems and should never have been used for breeding.
Both were prime examples of why potential new owners needed to take lots of care when selecting a responsible breeder.
In spite of the health problems, exacerbated by irresponsible breeding, pugs were amazing dogs and great pets, Ms Vermaak said.
They were originally bred to be lap dogs, she said, and loved to be around people all the time.
