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.

Let me know if you’d like a shortened version for web or a radio script version too.

Charity

Dog owners urged to keep pets indoors as extreme heat hits Wales

Published

6 hours ago

June 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

RSPCA warns missing a walk is safer than risking heatstroke

DOG owners are being urged to keep their pets indoors and avoid normal walking routines as extreme heat affects Wales and England.

The RSPCA has called for “lockdown-style caution” for dogs over the next 24 to 48 hours, warning that walks, ball games and energetic exercise could put pets at serious risk.

The charity says owners should change routines immediately, keeping dogs cool, calm and comfortable indoors until temperatures ease.

Lauren Bennett, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA and a former veterinary nurse, said: “During a red weather warning, dog owners should think of it like a temporary lockdown for their pets.

“For the next 24 to 48 hours, routines need to immediately change. This isn’t the time for walks, chasing the ball or playing fetch, or exposing pooches to energetic exercise.

“It’s far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating, or heatstroke.”

The warning comes as the peak of the current heatwave is forecast for today and tomorrow, with temperatures potentially reaching 39C in some areas.

The RSPCA says dogs should only be taken outside briefly for toilet breaks, ideally to the nearest grassy area, before being brought straight back indoors.

Owners are advised to provide fresh water in several places, close curtains in sunny rooms, use fans safely, and allow dogs to rest on cooler floors, cooling mats or damp towels.

Mental stimulation, such as puzzle feeders, snuffle mats and gentle indoor training games, can be used instead of exercise.

Ms Bennett added: “These temperatures won’t last forever, but the decisions owners make over the next couple of days could have a lasting impact on their pets.

“For now, the message is simple: pause normal routines, prioritise keeping pets cool and comfortable, and wait until temperatures ease before returning to business as usual.”

The charity is also reminding owners to watch for signs of heatstroke, which can include heavy panting, drooling, confusion, weakness, vomiting, collapse or seizures.

The RSPCA said vets dealt with 355 suspected heatstroke cases in 2025, with two thirds recorded during the summer months.

Anyone concerned about a dog showing signs of heatstroke should move the animal to a cool area, offer small amounts of water, begin cooling with cool—not ice-cold—water, and contact a vet immediately.

Charity

Sea shanties and street food bring crowds to Cardigan RNLI festival

Published

2 days ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SUNSHINE, sea shanties and street food helped draw hundreds of visitors to Cardigan RNLI Lifeboat Station on Saturday (Jun 20).

The station’s Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival brought together families, supporters and visitors from across the region for a day of maritime music, food and community spirit.

Traditional sea shanty groups performed throughout the event, with songs echoing around the lifeboat station, while street food vendors served a range of refreshments.

The event also gave visitors the chance to learn more about the lifesaving work carried out by the RNLI and its volunteer crews.

Cardigan RNLI thanked the performers, food vendors, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped make the day a success.

Bruce Harris, Launch Authority and event organiser, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support the station, enjoy the entertainment, and celebrate our maritime heritage.

“The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, performed, volunteered, and contributed to such a memorable event.”

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts.

The charity operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved more than 146,700 lives.

Charity

Mum takes on half marathon to give back to NHS

Published

2 days ago

June 22, 2026

Cerys Lafferty

KATE DAVIES is taking on the Wales Half Marathon to say thank you to the NHS services that supported her during a difficult time.

Kate, a mother of one who works in operational workforce at Withybush Hospital, is heading to Tenby on June 28 to take on the Wales Half Marathon at Long Course Weekend Wales to raise funds for Cilgerran Ward at Glangwili Hospital.

Having been in good health for much of her life, Kate has been fortunate to not need many Hywel Dda University Health Board services until recent years.

Kate said: “The journey to becoming a parent wasn’t straightforward, and I experienced several difficult and emotional setbacks along the way. Throughout this time, I was supported with great care, kindness and compassion by various services across the health board, for which I will always be grateful.

“In December 2023, under the care of Glangwili consultants, I gave birth to a healthy baby girl. I’m incredibly grateful and fortunate that I have a fantastic, healthy and happy two-year-old daughter.

“To celebrate, I have signed up to take part in the Long Course Wales Half Marathon! I would love to raise money to give back to the health board that was there when I needed it.

“I can think of nothing better than reaching the finish line in good health, with my daughter waiting for me, knowing I have raised funds and given back to say thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has donated.”

Tara Nickerson, Fundraising Manager, said: “What a heartfelt story. A huge thanks to Kate for taking on the Wales Half Marathon to support a service so close to her heart. We look forward to cheering her on!

“The generous charitable donations we receive don’t replace NHS funding. Instead, they are used to provide items and activities above and beyond core NHS expenditure, such as more welcoming surroundings for patients, families and staff, and research into, and the development of, treatments.”

You can donate to Kate’s fundraiser here: https://hyweldda.enthuse.com/pf/kate-davies