Over 130 pets abandoned in Oxfordshire, new RSPCA data shows
Pet abandonment has increased 51% nationally according to new statistics
New figures show over 1-hundred and 30 animals are being abandoned in Oxfordshire 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 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.”
Rudy’s Story:
Last year, a young spaniel with a leg deformity, had been left by the side of a road in a broken cage between Northmoor and Stanton Harcourt.
He was found by a passerby and taken for urgent veterinary care. The dog named Rudy by the team caring for him, was found alongside a note which read “Please feed and look after me. My owner is struggling to look after me”.
Rudy was rehabilitated and happily has been rehomed and enjoying life.
“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.”