RSPCA fears the number of neglected animals will increase during Christmas period as new data reveals ‘distressing’ rise
An animal welfare charity fears the number of neglected pets will increase around the Christmas period due to financial hardships.
New data shows that between January and September this year, the RSPCA received nearly 50,000 calls of animal neglect - a 25 per cent increase from the previous year.
In Suffolk, the number has risen from 518 in 2023 to 559 so far in 2024.
The ‘distressing’ figures reveal that, on average, the charity has dealt with 15 reported incidents of neglect every hour – or roughly one every four minutes.
The charity believes the increase in pet ownership during Covid-19 and the current financial hardship is behind the rise.
Jo Hirst, RSPCA’s superintendent, said: “Sadly we expect this crisis to worsen as more people tend to struggle with increased costs around Christmas time with presents to buy and extra food shopping - along with energy bills.
“One call every four minutes is a frightening statistic. Coupled with this we have also seen a starling increase in abandonment cases up to 30 per cent in just three years.
“We fear this upsetting trend will continue.”
The charity is urging the public to support its fund-raiser, Join The Christmas Rescue.
Money raised will help frontline staff, including rescuers, veterinary teams, branch workers, and centre staff, during the festive period.
To donate, click here.
Among those rescued by Suffolk inspectors was four-year-old Milo.
He did not have the best start in life and was terrified of everyone and everything when he arrived at the Martlesham centre.
It is thought he had spent his whole life in unsuitable conditions, which has triggered his intense anxiety. He was rescued due to welfare concerns.
In March, RSPCA Suffolk launched an appeal to help find Milo his forever home after spending nearly a year at the rescue centre.
He has now been rehomed with his new family.
Jo added: “To help more neglected animals we must work together to make it a happy Christmas for every kind.
“We’re calling on everyone who believes that no animal should be left to suffer this Christmas to donate to our appeal today.”
