Charity

RSPCA reports highest number of abandonments since pandemic

Published

1 year ago

March 24, 2025

Animal welfare crisis ‘still felt on huge scale’ five years after first lockdown

FIVE years on from the first UK lockdown, the RSPCA says the legacy of the Covid-19 pandemic continues to have a profound impact on animal welfare — with record levels of abandonment and rising concerns over pet care.

The charity says it is still dealing with the fallout from an increase in impulse pet purchases during lockdown, limited socialisation opportunities for young animals, and the ongoing cost of living crisis — all of which have placed “enormous challenges” on pets, owners, and rescue services.

Abandonment at record high

Last year, the RSPCA received 22,503 reports of animal abandonment — the highest annual figure since the pandemic began.

With rescue centres stretched beyond capacity, the charity is currently paying for 1,220 animals to be housed in private boarding while they wait for a space at one of its facilities.

Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, said: “While many pets found amazing new homes during the pandemic, we know not all animals were so lucky.

“The boredom of lockdown, and people’s temporarily changed lifestyles — including increased loneliness — may have led to a surge in impulse pet purchases. Sadly, as the reality of veterinary bills, behavioural issues, and juggling care with work set in, some owners were no longer willing or able to cope, and in some cases turned to extreme measures like abandonment.”

She added: “Five years on from that first lockdown announcement, the impact for animals is still being felt on a huge scale.”

Behavioural and health concerns

The effects of lockdown restrictions were not limited to abandonment. Routine veterinary care — including neutering, microchipping, and health check-ups — was often delayed, and vital socialisation opportunities for young pets were missed.

Between April 2023 and March 2024, there were 44,900 Google searches in the UK for “Can I give my dog paracetamol?”, raising concerns that more people are turning to self-treatment rather than seeking professional advice.

Dr Gaines explained: “Socialisation and structured training are critical for young dogs, but during lockdown, puppy classes and group activities were unavailable. We are now seeing the behavioural issues that resulted from that, and many owners are struggling.”

The charity also urged local councils during the pandemic to ease Public Spaces Protection Orders to help people access walking areas, but long-term issues around accessing and affording care have persisted.

“With vets halting non-urgent procedures during the pandemic, some owners may have become used to skipping appointments or trying to self-prescribe — especially now with the cost of living so high,” said Dr Gaines.

Cost of living pressures

The cost of living crisis, which experts say was exacerbated by the pandemic, continues to impact pet owners.

According to the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index:

36% of pet owners changed their behaviour due to financial pressure in the past year.
15% said they regretted owning a pet in 2024.
78% said it is now more expensive to care for their animals.

Dr Gaines said: “The crisis has been one of the most challenging events for companion animal welfare in recent memory. We’ve created a cost of living support hub and expanded our Pet Food Bank scheme — but it’s still incredibly tough for many families.”

Changing attitudes among younger people

The RSPCA also expressed concern over shifting attitudes towards animals, particularly among younger people.

The Animal Kindness Index found those aged 18-24 were:

Less likely to identify as animal lovers (57% compared to 68% overall),
More likely to accept dressing up animals for fun (33% vs. 16%),
More tolerant of breeding animals with genetic health issues (14% vs. 7%),
More accepting of animals being used in TV entertainment (23% vs. 16%).

Pandemic chicken trend turns sour

The impact has also extended beyond pets. Poultry ownership saw a brief spike during the pandemic, with many households taking on chickens as a “lockdown fad.” However, the RSPCA has since received reports of chickens being abandoned as the novelty wore off.

Beth Winspear, from the charity’s farm animals team, said: “Chickens can make wonderful companions, but some owners didn’t realise the level of care needed. Sadly, some birds were simply abandoned.”

Encouraging people to make compassionate food choices has also become more difficult as households cut costs.

“Despite economic pressures, we’re still seeing strong support for higher welfare meat, eggs, and dairy,” said Ms Winspear. “Two-thirds of consumers say they try to buy higher welfare produce, and sales of RSPCA Assured products continue to grow. Even small swaps can make a real difference.”

Signs of hope

Despite the challenges, the RSPCA believes that “people power” can help create a kinder future for animals.

Polling shows 68% of Brits consider themselves animal lovers, and many are taking action to help — from adopting rescue pets to supporting campaigns and sharing animal welfare advice.

Dr Gaines said: “While it’s been a tough five years for animals, there are so many ways people can make a positive difference. From volunteering to backing campaigns and choosing rescue pets, we can create a world where all animals are treated with compassion.”

The charity is also urging members of the public to take part in its consultation on the future of animal welfare.

Animal Futures: The Big Conversation invites people to share their vision for a better world for animals and humans alike. More information is available on the RSPCA website.

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Charity

Chief’s Tour honours fallen officers with 75-mile Pembrokeshire ride

Published

1 day ago

May 7, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Dyfed-Powys Police team raises thousands for bereaved police families charity

A TEAM of officers and staff from Dyfed-Powys Police cycled 75 miles across west Wales on Wednesday (May 6) in memory of colleagues who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The annual “Chief’s Tour of Pembs 2026” saw participants travel from Fishguard to Carmarthen while raising money for the charity Care of Police Survivors, commonly known as COPS.

The force said the event raised £2,690, with funds going towards support for the families of police officers who have died while serving their communities.

Along the route, cyclists stopped at several locations to meet relatives of fallen officers and take part in moments of reflection.

In a statement shared on social media, the force said the tour was held “in memory of all Dyfed-Powys Police officers who have lost their lives in service.”

The post added: “Those we’ve lost will always remain in our thoughts.”

COPS supports the families of officers who have died on duty by organising national and regional events, helping survivors build support networks and friendships with others who have experienced similar loss.

Dyfed-Powys Police thanked members of the public who supported the cyclists during the challenge.

“A huge thank you to our community for showing our Chief’s Tour cyclists support as they passed through Pembrokeshire,” the force said.

“Your cheers, waves and encouragement kept spirits high for those taking part.”

The 75-mile challenge took riders across parts of north and west Pembrokeshire before continuing east towards Carmarthenshire, combining physical endurance with remembrance and fundraising.

Police charities such as COPS often work quietly behind the scenes, supporting bereaved families long after national attention fades following the death of an officer.

Charity

Milford Haven Town Council Continues Support for Paul Sartori Hospice at Home

Published

1 day ago

May 7, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local residents by awarding funding to Paul Sartori Hospice at Home following a successful application for financial assistance.

The £500 contribution will help support the ongoing delivery of vital day and night home nursing care for people receiving end-of-life care in the Milford Haven area.

The Mayor of Milford Haven, Councillor William Elliott, said: “It is a privilege for Milford Haven Town Council to continue supporting this important and vital service, which provides much-needed care and reassurance to residents in our community when it is needed most.

The work of Paul Sartori is incredibly important, and we thank them for all they do — not only for people in Milford Haven, but across the whole county.”

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is a registered charity providing high-quality end-of-life care and a wide range of free services to individuals and families throughout Pembrokeshire. Through an open referral system, patients, carers, and family members can access specialist clinical care, emotional support, guidance, and practical assistance, with many services delivered directly in patients’ homes.

A cheque for £500 was presented by the Mayor of Milford Haven to Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

Judith Williams said: “We are extremely grateful to Milford Haven Town Council and its councillors for their continued support. Donations such as this make a real difference locally, helping us provide compassionate, dignified care to people in Milford Haven at the end of life.

Support from town and community councils not only helps sustain essential nursing services, but also reflects the strong partnership between Paul Sartori and the communities we serve. We truly value this ongoing commitment.”

The Paul Sartori nursing team currently provides approximately 150 hours of care each month within the Milford Haven area. Funding from Milford Haven Town Council will directly support local residents, enabling them to remain at home and receive professional, compassionate care surrounded by loved ones.

Alongside day and night nursing care, the charity also offers equipment loans, complementary therapies, bereavement and counselling support, and future care planning services — all free of charge and designed to maintain dignity, comfort, and independence for patients and families.

Families across Pembrokeshire living with a life-limiting illness can benefit from Paul Sartori Hospice at Home services. However, as a charitable organisation, the service relies heavily on the generosity of local communities, supporters, and fundraising initiatives to continue delivering this essential care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home is encouraging town and community councils across Pembrokeshire to consider supporting the charity to help ensure high-quality end-of-life care remains accessible throughout the county.

Photo Caption:

Judith Williams, Grant Development Officer at Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, pictured with the Mayor of Milford Haven, Councillor William Elliott.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

2 days ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.