RSPCA receives reports of 18 abandoned animals in Bedfordshire during lockdown

Since lockdown began, the RSPCA has had to deal with a worrying 18 abandoned animals in the county.

And nationally, the figure is even more staggering, with more than 1,600 reports of abandoned animals across England & Wales - that’s 40 a day.

The charity has released the figures as part of its emergency appeal, launched to keep its rescue teams out on the road during the pandemic.

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.

Nationally, since lockdown began:

*RSPCA rescuers have dealt with 27,507 incidents of animal cruelty, neglect and suffering animals which need help

*The charity has received more than 92,800 calls from members of the public

*There are more than 4,300 animals in RSPCA care

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.”

To help the RSPCA keep rescuing animals, you can make a donation here