RSPCA Reports Animal Intake Nearly Doubles Those Being Rehomed

The RSPCA has reported a rehoming crisis on day one of its month-long Adoptober rehoming campaign (1 October). Its animal intake is now 42% higher than the number of animals being successfully adopted into new homes and the situation is described as being “critical”.

In the first six months of this year, the RSPCA took in 32% more equines than the number rescued during the first half of 2023. It has already been reported previously that the cost of living crisis has lead to numerous equines being abandoned or euthanised in recent times, with owners finding it challenging to cover the increasing costs of day to day equine care.

“Our rescue centres are jam-packed, and we’ve been seeing more animals coming to us than we are rehoming,” said Karen Colman, who leads the charity’s team finding places for rescued animals.

“We urge anyone considering adding a pet to their family to step in and help by giving a rescue pet a second chance instead of buying from breeders. Our rehoming centres have reached crisis point and are full to bursting, creating a bottleneck where we’re having to care for rescued animals.”

The RSPCA hopes Adoptober will increase adoption rates across England and Wales by celebrating the benefits of rescue pets and highlighting the animals that are waiting to find their forever homes.

“Our 14 national centres prioritise animals rescued from cruelty and neglect,” added Karen. “They are the animals which need the most help with veterinary and behavioural care to rehabilitate them.

“These most vulnerable animals take time to recover from the cruelty and neglect they have experienced so it’s even more rewarding to see them ready to find loving new homes where they will be lavished with the love they deserve, and we hope even more will get to experience that during Adoptober.”

She also said that concerns about the cost of living remain an influencing factor in people giving up their animals.

“Our amazing teams are doing all they can. Our 135 independently run branches continue to rehome at a phenomenal pace and we are extremely proud of the work that they do,” continued Karen.

“They play a vital role in local communities across England and Wales and whilst they feel the pressure of taking in more animals they have done an incredible job finding so many loving new homes.”

If you are interested in rehoming a horse or pony, take a look at the Adoptober page, search for those seeking a new home at newc.co.uk/horses or get in touch with your local NEWC member.