RSPCA fears for abandoned pets in the aftermath of lockdown
The RSPCA has warned that the number of animals being abandoned could rise as people struggle to support their pets post-lockdown.
Within the first 50 days of the UK entering lockdown in March, the charity responded to more than 27,000 incidents.
An RSPCA spokesperson said that “in most cases, we don’t know why pets are abandoned,” but reassured the public that there was no evidence supporting virus transmission from pets to humans.
New worries have now emerged that many families won’t be able to support their pets or animals, as owners return to work and the country remains in a recession.
‘Starter pets’ are especially at risk of abandonment and neglect. Dr. Jane Tyson from the RSPCA’s Companion Animals Department, says that “there is a misconception that they are easy to look after”.
A small furry is categorised as a ‘starter pet’, which includes hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits.
The charity urges that giving up a pet is a “last resort” and owners should look for support from family and friends or rehoming opportunities before giving up their pet altogether.
