MORE animals are coming into rescue as rehoming slows in Dorset, with concern raised the number will increase amid economic hardship.
The RSPCA has launched its annual Adoptober campaign encouraging prospective pet owners to consider giving a rescued animal a home as new figures show more animals are being relinquished to charities at a time when rehoming has slowed.
In Dorset, the total number of animals rehomed slipped eight per cent from 390 in 2020 to 359 in 2021.
The number of dogs rehomed fell 33 per cent from 72 in 2020 to 48 in 2021; while rabbits fell 46 per cent from 59 to 32. Cats bucked the trend, however, with 30 per cent more rehomed in 2021 (210 compared to 162) and 21 per cent more other pets – like guinea pigs, rodents, farm animals and birds – were rehomed (117 compared to 97) in Dorset.
Pet welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “It’s really concerning to see that animals are staying in our care for longer and that less are being rehomed year-on-year. Unfortunately, we believe we’re really starting to see the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis.
“For those who are able to bring a pet into their home, we are urging them to really consider adopting rather than buying. Many of our animals will already be neutered, vaccinated and treated for fleas and worms and we will work them to make sure they find their perfect match.”
A three-year-old husky-cross called Big Patch arrived at RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre in January. The dog was signed over when its owner died and their family were unable to keep it.
Sadly, the dog had been kept locked in a porch without much food or exercise.
Behaviour and welfare advisor Hannah Hawkins, who has been helping to take care of Big Patch, said: “Big Patch was underweight and covered in urine stains, and needed a lot of work to prepare him for rehoming.
“We were thrilled when we found him a home in the summer but his adopters sadly returned him after just a few hours as they found him to be too strong and boisterous for them.
“He is, however, a really lovely dog, and is very clever. He knows lots of skills and responds well to his name and to training. He can be strong so needs owners who can manage this. He’s very playful and loves to sniff and explore so will enjoy long walks and lots of playtime.”
Visit rspca.org.uk/findapet for more information.
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