Animal welfare at crisis point, warns RSPCA chief
Animal cruelty, neglect and suffering are reaching unprecedented levels in modern times according to the RSPCA, the UK’s largest animal welfare charity.
Gavin Grant, CEO of the RSPCA, issued a stark warning today, stating that animal rescue charities are being overwhelmed with animals in dire need, stretching them to breaking point – all at a time when public generosity is under real pressure.
He said: “The recession may be over but these are very dark times for its silent victims – the animals. They have never needed our help so desperately.
“This is a real crisis and despite the immense dedication of our staff and volunteers, we are struggling to cope. We really need our country’s animal lovers to step forward and open their hearts, homes and purses in these extremely difficult times.”
The RSPCA alone reports a massive 65 per cent increase in the animals abandoned over the last five years as pet owners struggle to make ends meet since the recession began. This equates to a potential 40,000 additional animals requiring care. Over the same period, and despite efficiency savings, the charity’s running costs have risen 8 per cent from £111m to £120m.
With many of the RSPCA’s own animal rescue and rehoming centres already at capacity, the charity is increasingly reliant on private boarding to house abandoned and abused animals.
However, spaces are limited, meaning the charity faces a very real danger that within the foreseeable future, it may be forced to turn vulnerable animals away.
Since the RSPCA reported its annual cruelty statistics in April this year, it has seen yet further evidence of rising animal cruelty and neglect, citing a four per cent rise in cruelty cases logged this year to date.
As the number of animals in desperate need grows, welfare expenditure by the RSPCA - which relies entirely on public donations - is already exceeding forecasts set for 2012, as its rescue centres and inspectors are stretched to their limits.
Furthermore, the charity projects a further 6,000 dogs and cats will be abandoned between now and the end of the year at a cost of nearly £5m.
To donate to the RSPCA’s urgent Animal Welfare Crisis Appeal:
Text 'Crisis' now to 70007 to give £5 (Text costs £5 + one standard network rate message)or call the Emergency Appeal Line on 0300 123 8181 or go online and donate
