Buckinghamshire sees 11% increase in pet abandonment
New figures from the RSPCA suggest the cost of living crisis and pandemic have contributed to the rise
Last updated 20th Sep 2022
Buckinghamshire has seen an 11% rise in the number of pets being abandoned this year compared to last.
The charity says a boom in pet ownership during the pandemic coupled with the cost of living crisis is to blame for the increase.
This comes as the animal charity has revealed that the figure is on the up nationwide too, as the number of animals abandoned rose from 17% from 2020 to 2021 and 24% in the year up to 2022.
Esme Wheeler is a dog expert at the RSPCA and said people need to think carefully before buying a pet:
"If anyone's considering getting a pet they should really do their research and think carefully about if they can afford to maintain that animal in the long term."
"We know that around 78% of pet owners think the cost of living crisis is going to impact their animals, and a further fifth are worried about how they're going to feed their pets."
"We are dealing with the increase of the number of animals being abandoned and then having to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home these animals. This is a costly process and it involves huge numbers of professionals."
"It's putting a real stretch on our resources."
"If people are struggling, the first thing we would say is to reach out to friends and family and see what support is available within your immediate network."
"Secondly, to have a look at charities and organisations within your local area and see what they are offering."