December 19, 2019 9.45 am This story is over 50 months old

Almost 150 animals abandoned in Lincolnshire last Christmas

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Nearly 150 abandoned animals in Lincolnshire were reported to the RSPCA’s cruelty line last December.

The charity already cares for many abandoned animals around the country during the festive season, with 497 reported to the RSPCA in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire in December 2018. Of those, 149 were in Lincolnshire.

Nationally, 4,074 animals were reported as abandoned for England and Wales, with the RSPCA saying that more dogs than any other animal were being abandoned over the festive period.

Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer at the RSPCA, said: “Christmas is a busy time for us, as sadly cruelty and abandonments do not stop over the festive season and our staff work tirelessly to rescue and care for animals in need.

“Last year, there were 1,684 dogs reported as abandoned in December and 1,678 abandoned in January, and there were more dogs than any other animal being abandoned over the festive period.

“We understand that people’s circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer cope with their pet but there is never an excuse to abandon any animal like this, as there are other options available to people who are struggling to care for their pets. Dumping a pet leaves the animal extremely scared and vulnerable, especially in the cold winter months.

“We would urge anyone considering getting a pet to think carefully about whether they have the time, care, patience, and resources to care for that animal for the rest of their life and if you feel you really do, then please consider giving a rescue pet a second chance this new year.”

The RSPCA is urging people to help them care for animals spending Christmas in its centres and hospitals by contributing to its Stock the Sleigh campaign. The campaign asks for help providing anything from food, medicine, to a warm blanket, treats and toys.

It costs around £670,000 to run an RSPCA centre for a year. Donations to the campaign can help the animals in the charity’s care – click here for more information.