Nearly 900 pets abandoned in the South in 2023
Pet abandonment has increased 51% nationally, according to new RSPCA figures
Last updated 26th Nov 2024
The RSPCA is urging those looking to buy a pet this winter to consider their long-term future, after new figures showed more than 870 were abandoned in the South in the past year.
The West Sussex-based charity have recorded a 51% increase nationally since over the last three years and say it's due to cost of living pressures.
West Sussex has seen a 30% increase in abandonment reports in just two years - 201 were reported in 2023 compared with 155 in 2021.
There was also a 28% rise on the Isle of Wight, from 40 in 2021 to 51 in 2023.
Hampshire (379 to 423, up 12%) and Dorset (190 to 203, up 7%) also saw rises in that time period.
Suzanna Norbury from the RSPCA 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."
One dog found dumped by a roadside
Among the incidents RSPCA inspectors have been called to was one where a seven-month-old dog was found dumped by a roadside in Hook Lane in Chichester.
The seven-month-old spaniel cross was taken to a local vet for treatment in November last year.
RSPCA Inspector Andrew Kirby, who launched an investigation, said:
"It is really sad that she was dumped in this way - she was severely malnourished and anything could have happened to her. When the vets weighed her she was only 2kg.
"We have not found the person responsible for leaving her in such a state but happily she was rehomed and is loving her new 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.”