RSPCA Fears Rise In Abandoned And Dumped Pets In Post-Lockdown Sussex

After 373 calls about abandoned pet animals last summer, the RSPCA said it fears a greater number this year as financial problems caused by the coronavirus lockdown begin to bite harder.

The charity said it typically sees abandonment peak in the summer months.  

Between June and August 2019, 16,519 animals were reported abandoned to the RSPCA which accounts for 30% of all animals reported abandoned that year.

But charity officials claimed they are braced for an even bigger impact this summer following the easing of lockdown and the financial impact on the coronavirus pandemic.

Already this March, an officer was called to rescue a bearded dragon which was found in a closed cardboard box in a ditch in Byfleets Lane, between Broadbridge Heath and Warnham.

The box had been there for around three to four days, but when the person opened it in order to move it from the ditch they discovered the bearded dragon inside.

Fortunately, despite having been left in the box for a few days the dragon appeared to be in good health and was taken to a nearby vet for a check-up before being transferred to an appropriate reptile specialist facility.

Now, the RSPCA has launched an emergency appeal to help deal with expected numbers.

During the three months since lockdown began, the RSPCA claimed it had received reports about 3,492 abandoned animals — about 40 calls a day — 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."

Dermot added:

"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 by the RSPCA has risen by more than 1,500 to 5,600 during the pandemic.

Dermot continued:

"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."

To get help instead of abandoning pets, RSPCA staff suggested:

• Ask friends and family for help
• Contacting a 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.