Don't dump an unwanted pet out with the Christmas rubbish -- that's the message from the RSPCA.

The animal charity says in the first 12 days of December alone, 55 abandoned animals were reported to its east central regional control centre, which covers Oxfordshire.

Despite repeated pleas to the public not to give pets as presents, the RSPCA's regional centres still struggle to cope with a stream of abandoned pets and unwanted animals brought in over the busy festive season.

It wasn't just cats and dogs that were dumped last year -- rabbits, goldfish and a guinea pig all needed new homes.

John Hancock, the east central regional manager, said: "Christmas should be a time for celebration, but every year we have to deal with animals that are abandoned once the novelty of having a new pet has worn off.

"We hope that people will think twice about buying pets as Christmas presents.

"Everyone must realise how important it is to carefully consider the cost, care and commitment involved in looking after a pet for the rest of its life.

"It is not a decision to be taken lightly, or on behalf of anyone else."

The RSPCA estimates that a dog owner can expect to pay up to £9,600 over the lifetime of their pet.

It also reckons that cats can cost £8,000, and two rabbits £7,600 -- the estimates include the cost of feeding, microchipping, neutering, vets' fees and insurance premiums.