Just under 300 animals abandoned in Norfolk in 2023
Pet abandonment has increased 51% nationally according to new research.
New figures show 295 pets were abandoned in Norfolk last year and the RSPCA are urging us to think twice before buying a pet.
The charity have recorded a 51% increase nationally since over the last three years and say it's due to the cost of living.
Suzanna Norbury is from the RSPCA in our region and she's been telling us about the harsh reality of abandonment in winter.
She said: “We find the full spectrum of horrific things happening to animals, so we find many outside in the cold weather or being left behind in homes and that’s really concerning.
“Sadly, as we come into the winter months, we know it’s a really hard time. So, we’re really hoping to raise awareness and encourage people to help us as a charity and help more animals.”
Pets abandoned whilst moving house
Suzanne told us they've seen cases where families move and leave their pets behind.
"At some point someone closes the door and just turns her back on the animals that are inside there.
"We often get contacted by landlords or housing associations, and sometimes we're able to save those animals in time.
"Sometimes the animals have already sadly passed away before we're made aware that they're in there."
Pressure on the RSPCA
Suzanne also explained how this increase is putting additional strain on their services.
"Our rescue centres are absolutely full to bursting point...We're finding that more animals are coming into our care than are being adopted."
She asks that if anyone finds an animal who has been abandoned to help them straight away and be the animals "eyes and ears."
"Going onto the RSPCA website with lots of information for the best way to get that animal the help the quickest.
"If people, we'd always encourage people to take that animal to a vet and then vets can also contact us and we can. We can help from there."
“Adopt not shop”
The RSPCA expects the crisis to worsen as more people struggle with the increase in expenditure around Christmas time with presents to buy and extra food shopping, coupled with an increase in energy bills.
Ms Norbury said: “We know there’s been a surge in pet ownership since 2019 and since then people have really struggled with the cost-of-living crisis. So, we’ve done all we can to be there for the animals and for the owners who desperately need us in the area.
“Lots of owners have much loved pets who are really struggling right now. So, we’d recommend reaching out to friends, family, or charities like ours.”
She added: “Make sure it’s the right time to welcome a pet into your home and to adopt not shop. Animal centres are really bursting at the scenes right now. So, if someone is looking to rehome a pet and has the time, we’d encourage them to give a rescue pet the second chance they deserve.”
The RSPCA say if you find a small pet who has been abandoned, “take them directly to a local vet or rescue centre. These teams can call in the expertise of our teams if there’s evidence that the animal has been neglected or abused.”