PANDEMIC PETS IN CRISIS
Over half of new pet owners would have to give up their pets if they lost their job or faced cuts to income, new research by a leading pet charity reveals.
The surge in pet ownership during the pandemic has seen a huge rise in the need for charitable support. More than three million pets were taken on during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic and new research by Blue Cross reveals that more than two-thirds of new pet owners are not aware of the costs of raising a new pet, which can amount to over £12,000 for cats.
Sadly, over half admit they would be forced to give up their pet within just six months if they lost their job or faced a sudden loss of income. Less than one in four say they will always have the financial resources to meet the needs of their pet.
Blue Cross has added new services during the pandemic to keep people and their pets together, including pet food banks, a donation-based animal behaviour line, and increased charity vet support for pet owners with limited finances or low incomes.
Rachel Myers, Blue Cross animal behaviourist, says: “With such drastic changes to our lifestyles during the lockdowns, we knew this would also have a huge impact on the lives of our pets. Families spending much more time at home meant pets were forced into a new routine and this led to several worrying trends in pet behaviour, with some showing signs of aggression and even nipping their owners or guarding precious items. While we ask for a donation for our advice, sadly, more than half of callers to the helpline stated they simply couldn’t afford to give us a donation so we know there are many owners really struggling to cope.”
Blue Cross has also launched a campaign urging pet owners across the nation to get their pet care costs into shape.The new campaign offers free support and guidance to those who need it, including tips on how to avoid expensive vet bills and even includes how-tos on DIY pet treats and toys.
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For more information, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/petcosts