RSPCA says number of pets abandoned in Sussex on the rise

Statistics from the RSPCA show the number of reports of animals being abandoned in the county rose by more than 15 per cent from 2021 to 2023.

The animal charity said the surge in pet ownership during the Covid-19 lockdowns followed by the cost-of-living crisis could be to blame for the rise and expects further problems heading into winter.

In East Sussex, the number of abandonment reports rose by eight per cent – from 198 in 2021 to 213 in 2023.

Read More: Sussex RSPCA: 5 pets who are on the lookout for new homes

But in West Sussex, nearly 50 more animals were abandoned in 2023 compared to two years prior – a jump of 30 per cent from 155 to 201.

In response, the RSPCA has launched it's Christmas Rescue campaign in a bit to raise funds and continue their work.

The campaign comes as the charity expects thousands more animals to be affected across the country.

Donations can be made on the RSPCA website.

RSPCA chief inspector Ian Briggs said donations from supporters remains vital.

e 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 nationally 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.

“Our rescuers are regularly coming across dogs in poor health, collapsed and left in isolated spots to suffer a lingering death; sick kittens discarded in cardboard boxes who are lucky to be found alive; or pet rabbits dumped in the wild with little chance of survival against predators.

“Heartbreakingly, we are seeing many pets left in their own filth - with no food or water, no-one to care for them and no idea if anyone will come to help them.

“Thanks to the public supporting us we are able to rescue many animals, rehabilitate them and find them new homes - but to continue this lifesaving work we need your help.”