Charities are growing concerned that breeders could find themselves with puppies that they can’t turn a profit on and could even dump them as demand and prices go down for dogs.
People could have to give up their pets if they are unable to return to work after lockdown or because of the rising cost of living. Photo: RSPCA
The RSPCA is warning that as people return to work after the pandemic, and struggle with the increased cost of living, more dogs and other animals will be abandoned.
The charity recently rescued six puppies dumped in a crate at the side of a main road in Kent and said that over Christmas, they rescued 29% more animals than the previous year.
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Dr Samantha Gaines is a RSPCA pet welfare specialist. She said that there has been an increase in surrenders and animals being left behind. This could get worse as more people go back to work or have difficulty keeping up with rising living costs.
” We believe one of the biggest reasons pet owners abandon their animals or fail to take care of them properly is because they don’t do enough research prior to getting them. Also, it doesn’t make sense for pet owners not understand the costs of ownership. “
According to online marketplace Pets4Homes, before the pandemic the average price of a dog in the UK was PS876.
That rose to PS2,237 in March 2021, but by the summer that was down to PS1,873 and it continues to fall.
Charities is also worried that with lower demand and higher prices, breeders may end up selling puppies they don’t make a profit from or even dumping them.
Tess Bond, Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter said to Sky News they are also experiencing an increase in abandoned animals and that more people will consider adopting them instead of buying puppies.
She stated that she is seeing many people who have lost their jobs due to COVID, and are unable to afford animals.
” We’re seeing a lot more animals who aren’t well due to owners not being able to afford vet care. Also, we’re definitely seeing those who took in dogs during the pandemic but are returning work now and are not able or willing to take them home. “
The shelter in Malvern is finding homes for some dogs, including Bella the energetic, husky-husky cross. She will soon be joining her new owner, TJ Gibbons.
She said: “I believe in second chances. There are so many dogs out there that need that second chance – take Bella for example – she had a loving home but they just couldn’t look after her anymore so it’s not her fault and she deserves the love that any dog can get. “
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