Cost of living: RSPCA prepares for 'winter crisis' from abandoned pets

Animal charities say people are struggling to look after pets during the cost of living crisis

The RSPCA says it is preparing for a 'crisis' this winter.

This is because lots of people are struggling to look after their pets, due to the cost of living crisis.

The RSPCA is a charity that looks after abandoned pets, and helps find new homes for them.

It says the number of people leaving animals behind is the highest it has been in three years.

Why are so many people abandoning pets?

Sometimes it can become too expensive at home for people to look after their pets

Dermot Murphy, in charge of RSPCA rescue teams, said it's because of "the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis".

He told Newsround that "sadly at the RSPCA we are seeing more people abandoning their pets because they can no longer afford them".

"More people also took on pets during the Covid pandemic - and perhaps they were unprepared for the long-term commitment which a pet needs".

Things like pet food and pet supplies are becoming more expensive because of inflation, on top of vet bills - this all adds to the cost of owning a pet.

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What happens to animals that are abandoned?

At RSPCA centres many animals can be adopted and given new homes.

Dave the puppy was looked after by the RSPCA after being left outside

Abandoned animals like Dave are often spotted by members of the public and then taken in to the RSPCA. Dave was very unwell when he was found, but was nursed back to health at the RSPCA.

After four days the puppy was fostered and eventually ended up finding his forever home.

In New Tredegar in South East Wales a group of seven puppies were found abandoned, but were quickly taken to the RSPCA.

They were then passed onto the Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home. The puppies are doing well now and have all been named after trees. They're called Ash, Chestnut, Fern, Hazel, Maple, Oak and Willow.

Here are two of the rescued puppies - now happily fighting over a stick

What to do you if you think you've found an abandoned animal

The RSPCA told Newsround that if you think you've seen an abandoned animal, you should tell an adult straight away. Don't try to pick up or touch the animal.

"The animal may be frightened or scared, so please do get an adult who can help you", explained Gill Hillan, from RSCPA Cymru.

You can ask an adult you trust to take the animal to a safe place like a vet, or get them to call the RSPCA.