RSPCA receives 17 reports of abandoned animals in Northamptonshire during coronavirus lockdown

The RSPCA has received 17 reports of abandoned animals in Northamptonshire since the coronavirus lockdown began.

Nationally, the charity has had 1,663 incidents of abandonments reported to its cruelty hotline - an average of 40 a day - since the country was told to stay at home on March 23.

The charity has released the figures as part of its emergency appeal, launched to keep its rescue teams helping animals in need during the Covid-19 crisis.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA rescue teams, said: “Although much of the country is on lockdown, sadly there are still thousands of animals who need our help, including abandoned pets.

“Many people are finding their pets are a real source of comfort in these anxious times and thankfully cases of abandonment are slightly lower than usual but it’s heartbreaking that some animals are being dumped during this crisis.

“In most cases, we don’t know why pets are abandoned but it’s really important to remind people that there is no evidence to suggest that Covid-19 can be passed from pets to people.

“There is lots of help and support out there for anyone else struggling to get animal food, with health or behavioural issues, exercising their pets or managing to keep children safe around pets. Please don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by the Government but vital funding is needed to help the RSPCA’s frontline staff continue this crucial work across England and Wales.

Since the Government introduced the lockdown measures, the RSPCA has responded to more than 27,000 incidents and received more than 92,800 calls from members of the public.

The number of animals being cared for by the RSPCA at centres, hospitals and vet surgeries has also grown by hundreds to a total of more than 4,300 animals.

The RSPCA is also urging pet owners to make an emergency pet-care plan should they be admitted to hospital with coronavirus, including placing a poster in the window informing people there are pets inside.

To support the charity's fundraising appeal, visit rspca.org.uk/covid.