The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has said it is worried that there will be an increase in neglected and abandoned animals this Christmas “as families struggle with soaring bills”.
The animal welfare charity said it has already seen a 25% rise in the number of abandonment incidents being dealt with by its rescue team this year.
Head of the RSPCA frontline rescue teams, Dermot Murphy, said: “We’ve sadly seen a shocking rise in the number of incidents of animal abandonment and neglect our rescuers are dealing with.
“We’re extremely sympathetic to anyone struggling to anyone struggling with rising costs at this difficult time but we’re begging people not to dump their pets.
“It is never the answer. Please, please ask for help.”
Murphy said the RSPCA is doing everything it can to help, but it is struggling with its “branches and centres full to bursting” and hundreds of pets waiting for a place.
“We really need animal lovers to help us get through this crisis time,” he said.
The charity says it’s facing additional challenges this year because of rising prices, with everything from the fuel that keeps rescuers on the road and energy that heats animal centres and hospitals to the food the animals need, continuing to soar.
“All of this means we are facing a perfect storm of animal suffering this Christmas and animals risk paying the ultimate price of this crisis,” Murphy said.
“Growing numbers of pets are hungry, sick, neglected – and running out of time. That’s why it’s vital that our animal rescue teams can be on the road and ready to rescue animals this winter.
“We’re appealing to people who are in the position to donate to please join the Christmas rescue at a time when any contribution could make the difference between life and death for animals this winter.”
Pet safety this Christmas
RSPCA pet welfare expert, Jane Tyson, has shared some tips on how to keep pets safe and healthy this Christmas, while still making sure that they also enjoy thenmselves.
“Keep your pets safe this Christmas by swotting up on what can be dangerous; no one wants an expensive vet visit this festive season,” she said.
“Christmas presents, special treats and extra fun can all be part and parcel of a pet’s Christmas experience. But while the celebrations can be great for pets, there’s a risk that the time of year can also prove hazardous and stressful for them.”
Chocolate
The charity warns that chocolate tree decorations can be overlooked at times, even though most pet owners are aware that chocolate is not good for their pets.
“When you’re decorating your tree, avoid hanging chocolate decorations and, instead, pop the family’s sweet treats somewhere safe and out of your pets’ reach,” the RSPCA said.
“Some festive favourites can be dangerous for pets such as Christmas pudding, mince pies and chocolate, so make sure they are kept out of reach and stored securely,” Tyson added.
Cooked bones and leftovers
The charity has said that cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries in pets.
Onions, leeks and garlic can also be toxic to pets.
Leftover pigs in blankets, gravy and stuffing should not be fed to pets either, the charity said, due to their high salt content.
However, other parts of the Christmas dinner can be fed as treats, like small amounts of cooked turkey and carrots.
“Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it’s not covered in fat, salt or gravy,” Tyson said.
“It’s best for your pets to stick to their normal food. If you do want to treat your pet to some festive bites, try our easy-to-make cat and dog treats that you can find on our website. Be sure to feed treats in moderation, as extra weight isn’t good for their health.”
