Misery for abandoned pets every Christmas
Centre issues appeal
Hamilton’s animal rescue centre is braced to receive unwanted animals that are dumped by their owners after Christmas.
Staff at the Scottish SPCA base on Bothwell Road are appealing to people to think carefully before taking on the responsibility of a pet.
Every year, the charity take in hundreds of animals that were bought as presents during the festive season.
So this year they will stop rehoming animals next Monday, (December 19), until January.
Centre manager Peter Fleming explained: “It’s an upsetting reality that in the weeks and months after Christmas our centres are often asked to take in puppies, kittens and other pets who were given as presents.
“Even worse, some of these animals are dumped like rubbish once the novelty has worn off.
“Every year in the lead up to Christmas we stress animals should never be bought on a whim or given as surprise presents – but some people aren’t getting the message.”
He added: “Every January we take in hundreds of animals and it is possible some of these animals had been bought for Christmas.
“For that reason we are asking people to consider whether they have the time and financial resources to be able to properly care for an animal for life.
“In order to reduce the risks of people taking on pets to give away as presents, we will stop rehoming puppies, kittens and baby animals between December 19 and January 3.
“We have to ensure our rescue animals aren’t being taken on by someone who just wants a new pet for Christmas.
“Our message is simple – a pet is a lifelong commitment and not a present which can be given at Christmas and then forgotten about soon afterwards.”
There is no rest for the dedicated staff at the charity’s centre though, as they work 365 days a year.
Over this festive period the Hamilton centre will be closed to the public on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and January 2. While you won’t be allowed to rehome a pet, you can visit outwith those days.
The Scottish SPCA rely entirely on public donations and receive no government or lottery funding. If you would like to donate this Christmas call the charity on 03000 999 999 or visit www.scottishspca. org.