THE RSPCA fear the fallout from the Covid crisis could see a surge in abandoned animals as owners struggle to keep their pets.
The charity sees abandonment peak in the summer months. Between June and August last year the charity received 179 reports about dumped animals in Warwickshire.
And bosses braced for an even bigger impact this summer following the easing of lockdown and the financial impact on the pandemic, have launched an emergency appeal to continue its vital rescue work.
Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA’s animal rescue teams, said: “During lockdown we’ve seen pets become a source of comfort and support for people and it appears many people have taken on new animals.
“Fortunately during this time we’ve dealt with fewer abandoned pets however we are worried that as lockdown eases, people return to work, go on holidays or struggle financially we will be facing a massive surge of animal abandonments.
“Sadly summer tends to bring with it a surge in abandoned animals. We don’t know why but it may be a combination of the warmer weather making people feel less guilty about dumping a pet to fend for themselves and people doing away on holiday abandoning pets instead of arranging care for them.”
RSPCA rescue teams have been working throughout lockdown after being classified as essential key workers. The numbers of animals being cared for nationally by the RSPCA has risen by more than 1,500 to 5,600 during the pandemic.
Dermot added: “This is the toughest year yet for the RSPCA despite the huge challenges, our amazing teams have been continuing to rescue animals throughout this crisis.
“I’d urge anyone struggling with their pet to ask for help. Animals have been there to help us through the crisis, please don’t abandon them now.”
Visit www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/donate/summer? to donate to the RSPCA’s emergency appeal, or www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare for advice if struggling to care for a pet.
