RSPCA reveals big increase in animal abandonment

Figures released by the RSPCA show the number of animals abandoned in England and Wales during the winter period has increased by 51 per cent in three years.

In Cambridgeshire, the figures show the number of abandonment reports for 2023 was 261, up from 243 in 2021, which is a 7 per cent increase year on year.

The charity has released the new statistics to highlight the battle frontline rescuers face ahead of what is expected to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals as part of its Join the Christmas Rescue campaign.

The RSPCA received 3,071 animal abandonment reports during the winter period November 2020 to January 2021.

Last winter (November 2023 to January 2024) this rose to a staggering 4,630 pets who were reported to have been left to fend for themselves.

RSPCA chief inspector Ian Briggs said: “We are seeing a shocking rise in the number of calls reporting pet abandonment to our emergency line during winter with an eye-watering 51 per cent rise in three years.

“Sadly we expect the trend will continue as more pet owners face financial hardship at this time of year more than any other.”