FIGURES released by the RSPCA show an increase in the number of animals abandoned in Dorset. 

Across England and Wales, the number of animals abandoned during the winter period has increased by a massive 51 per cent in just three years.

For Dorset, the number of abandonment reports to the RSPCA for 2023 was 203 up from 190 in 2021 when the cost of living crisis began - a 7 per cent increase.

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

Last winter (November 2023 to January 2024) this rose to a staggering 4,630 pets who were reported to have been left to fend for themselves - a 51 per cent increase.

In total, 20,999 abandonment reports were made to the charity’s emergency line in 2023 and according to latest 2024 figures (available up until the end of October) 19,067 have been reported this year - which, if this trend continues, will be almost 23,000 reports.

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 per cent 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."

A black kitten called Gomez, who was abandoned, is now in the care of the RSPCA’s Ashley Health Animal Centre. 

He is aged between three and six months and was found abandoned in Dorset. The centre is now looking to find Gomez a new home.

(Image: RSPCA)

Ian 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."

According to the RSPCA, the surge in pet ownership during the Covid-19 lockdown and the increasing financial hardships due to high living costs have led to the increase in people dumping their pets. 

The charity has released the new statistics to highlight the battle frontline rescuers face ahead of what is expected to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals as part of its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign.