Thousands of pet owners are unable to look after their animals as the cost-of-living crisis hits, the RSPCA has warned.
It said abandonments had increased 30% over winter and added that it is now “bracing for one of the toughest summers we’ve ever faced” as families struggle to pay bills and keep food on the table.
The charity warned of a “crisis” with dogs and rabbits as centres are full, leaving a long waiting list of animals waiting to go to their new homes, while adoptions have slowed down.
The RSPCA received 3,644 calls last year categorised as “help with vet bills” – a growth of 12% on 2020 when 3,241 calls were received.
Cats Protection also said it has seen a 25% increase in the number of kittens being handed over to their adoption centres in the first quarter of the year, some as a result of evictions.
The RSPCA’s chief vet Caroline Allen said: “Times are tough for so many, the cost of living is spiralling, and many may face difficult financial decisions.
“It may be tempting to bury your head in the sand if your pet seems unwell and you are worried about costs, but this can lead to increased problems later down the line.
“The first step towards helping your pet is contacting a vet.
"Although it can feel awkward to talk about money, it is good to speak honestly with your vet as there may be alternative options.
“These may not be the best options to treat your pet’s illness, but they may still help them to feel better.”
The RSPCA said it is increasingly concerned about reports of people trying to treat their pets at home.
Google searches for “can I give my dog paracetamol” have increased from 5,600 per month in January 2020 compared to 14,600 monthly searches in January 2022.
Seven-week-old puppy, Nellie, was dumped in Darlington in September last year.
She had a skin infection called sarcoptic mange, which was left untreated leaving her mostly bald.
She has now been treated and found a new home.
A lop-eared rabbit was also found in a box in a park in Bradford last year with severely overgrown nails and an infected eye, and was also suffering from fur loss.
Go to rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/donate
