THE RSPCA is braced for summer surge in abandonments after 149 calls in Worcestershire last year.
The charity fears impact of Covid-19 and financial downturn may see more owners dumping pets in in the county.
Typically, the charity sees abandonments peak in the summer months.
Between June and August 2019, 16,519 animals nationwide were reported abandoned to the RSPCA which accounts for 30 per cent of all animals reported abandoned that year.
During the three months since lockdown began, the charity has received reports about up to 3,500 abandoned animals – the equivalent of about 40 calls a day, with animals including 1,509 dogs, 1,165 cats, 299 small furries such as hamsters, guinea pigs and ferrets and 275 exotic pets.
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.
“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.”
What people can do if they’re struggling to care for their pets:
Ask friends and family for help
Contact your vet about payment plans, discounts or vouchers for neutering or any other treatment needed
Get in touch with local rehoming charities for advice
Visit the RSPCA website for welfare advice
To help the RSPCA continue to rescue animals that have been abandoned this summer, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/abandonments
