RSPCA report rise in animal abandonment in Buckinghamshire

The figures, released on November 25, show a 14 percent increase since the start of the cost of living crisis.

Across England and Wales, the number of animals abandoned during the winter period has increased by 51 percent in the last three years.

In Buckinghamshire alone, the number of abandonment reports to the RSPCA for 2023 stood at 189, up from 166 in 2021.

(Image: RSPCA)

The RSPCA received 3,071 animal abandonment reports during the winter period from November to January 2021.

However, the number rose to 4,630 last winter, between November 2023 and January 2024.

The charity attributes this rise to the increase in pet ownership during the Covid-19 lockdown and the growing financial hardships due to rising living costs.

RSPCA chief inspector Ian Briggs said: "We are seeing a shocking rise in the number of calls reporting pet abandonment to our emergency line during winter with an eye-watering 51 percent rise in three years.

"Sadly, we expect the trend will continue as more pet owners face financial hardship at this time of year more than any other."

Mr Briggs also highlighted the plight of many abandoned pets, saying: "Our rescuers are regularly coming across dogs in poor health, collapsed and left in isolated spots to suffer a lingering death; sick kittens discarded in cardboard boxes who are lucky to be found alive; or pet rabbits dumped in the wild with little chance of survival against predators."

The RSPCA also highlighted the case of two cats, Dragonfly and Butterfly, who were abandoned in pet carriers in a car park in Aylesbury.

Dragonfly the cat (Image: RSPCA)

Both cats have since been rehomed, but Dragonfly had to be put on a strict diet due to her weight.

Julie Allen, animal centre manager, said at the time: "Poor Dragonfly and Butterfly were left abandoned in pet carriers and they were very lucky that they were spotted when they were and got the care they needed."

Mr Briggs added: "Right now, far too many animals are suffering behind closed doors.

"But as long as animals are in desperate need this Christmas, we won’t stop.

"So please join the Christmas Rescue and together we will bring joy and safety to animals."

The RSPCA continues to encourage the public to support their efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and find new homes for these abandoned animals.