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 – 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.
Dermot Murphy from the charity 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 we will be facing a surge of animal abandonments.”
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, get in touch with local rehoming charities or the RSPCA for advice.
