Animal shelters braced for post-Xmas surge

ANIMAL shelters across Wales are “bracing” for a flood of unwanted pets being surrendered and abandoned in the weeks and months after Christmas.

The concerns come after thousands of pandemic pets were abandoned across the UK as restrictions began to ease.

Last winter in Wales alone, the RSPCA received 180 reports of animals being abandoned, with 53 of those in December.

The charity also warned that animal abandonment levels have now risen to almost pre-pandemic levels, raising fears that the festive season could be even busier.

While many of these pets have since found loving new homes, there are still dozens of animals searching for their forever homes in shelters all across the country.

A spokesperson for RSPCA Cymru said: “While many pets have found perfect new homes during the pandemic, the RSPCA has long feared that the rise in pet ownership during the pandemic and pets bought on an impulse will result in more animals abandoned or neglected this year, and we are braced for an influx of unwanted animals in the months ahead.

“Our frontline rescue offices have also voiced concerns; in a recent survey, 84% said they were worried that more people are taking on pets without understanding how to care for them.

“Animal abandonment levels have now risen to almost pre-pandemic levels, which is why we fear this festive season could be even busier.

“Whatever the time of year, we continue to stress how important it is people do their research before adding a pet - such as a puppy - to their family. There is a lot to think about and a wealth of information on the RSPCA website for prospective owners, and tools such as the Puppy Contract too.

“We are also asking people to help support our officers who will be out rescuing animals this festive period. It will cost £245 a day to keep a frontline rescuer on the road this Christmas please Join the Christmas Rescue and help bring them to safety.”