An animal charity has received around 100 calls for help to rehome horses because the cost of living crisis means they are struggling to look after them.
It comes after new data from the RSPCA revealed 78 per cent of pet owners believe the cost of living will impact their animals, almost seven out of 10 (68 per cent) expressed concern the cost of care was increasing, and a fifth (19 per cent) worried about how they will afford to feed their pets.
The Blue Cross in Burford said the survey was "very worrying" and it was starting to see more people coming to them for help.
Centre manager Hannah Wiltshire said: “We are starting to see more people getting in touch with us for help to rehome their pet as they can no longer afford to care for their pet, whether that be the cost of vet bills or feeding their pet.
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"We’d urge anyone who is struggling to care for their pet to get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can provide assistance.
“Our horse team has seen an increase in the number of requests they’re getting to help people who can no longer afford the cost of their animal.
"Since March the team have received around 100 calls and emails for help to find new homes for horses and ponies. Sadly with the cost of living set to soar further this year, we’re concerned that we’re going to see more calls for help as the year goes on.”
Blue Cross is currently assessing the need for pet food banks after setting up branches in Manchester, Sheffield and Grimsby and is also looking at ways to work with food banks in the area.
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Ms Wiltshire added: "We’ve not seen an increase in pets being abandoned, but we are seeing a number of cats and small animals being signed over into our care here at Burford because of unexpected vet bills and people not being able to cover the cost of care for their pet.
"We’re also seeing an increase in requests to help dogs and dogs coming into us who need behavioural support, many have been under-socialised during the pandemic and our behaviour teams are working with these animals so that we can find them new homes.
"If anyone is struggling to feed their pet we’d advise getting in touch with your nearest food bank for help and also to consult your vet on diet changes you can make for your pet."
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