The RSPCA has made an urgent appeal to dog enthusiasts after facing a challenging summer. The animal welfare organization is urging potential adopters to step forward in September.
This call for help comes as the charity grapples with a surge in the number of dogs under its care due to various cases of cruelty and neglect. According to an update on the RSPCA website, the organization had a record 1,646 dogs in its custody in July, which is more than double the figure from the same time last year.
Out of all the animals being looked after by the RSPCA, one-third are dogs. The charity highlighted that in July alone, 445 dogs were rescued, significantly surpassing the average of 245 rescues per month over the past five years.
Given that RSPCA facilities are currently at full capacity, close to half of the dogs are being housed in private kennels. Additionally, other animals are being accommodated in private boarding facilities due to space constraints. This situation is costing the charity over £650,000 each month.
As the largest animal welfare organization in the UK, the RSPCA employs over 1,500 staff, boasts a volunteer force of nearly 7,000, and includes more than 400 animal rescuers. The charity is hoping for public support to provide rescued dogs with a fresh start and help free up space for more animals in need.
Glenn Mayoll, the Operations Manager at the RSPCA, emphasized the strain on frontline teams during the summer, marked by efforts to address instances of cruelty and neglect, as well as major incidents involving numerous dogs. He stressed the urgency of finding safe havens for suffering dogs.
The RSPCA cannot disclose specifics of recent large-scale incidents due to ongoing investigations. However, the organization noted that the dogs in its care have been saved from distressing situations of mistreatment, neglect, or abandonment. Some dogs are not yet ready for adoption due to legal proceedings.
The charity is encouraging animal lovers to consider adopting a pet or share adoption profiles to help dogs connect with new families. Glenn highlighted the diverse range of dogs available for adoption, from puppies to senior dogs, active breeds to laid-back companions, and various sizes and temperaments.
For those interested in adopting, all available dogs across RSPCA centers can be viewed on the charity’s Find a Pet page.