SSPCA report reveals ‘significant increase’ in calls to give up pets

The Scottish SPCA has received a significant rise in the number of calls from people looking to give up their pets.

Between January and June this year the organisations experienced a 19.5% increase from the previous six months.

New figures released on Thursday also shows that animal rescue officers attended over 17,000 incidents throughout Scotland.

The numbers in the mid-year report reveal a significant increase in demand for the services of the SSPCA who provided more than 44,000 meals through its Pet Aid programme, which helps owners feed and care for their animals during tough times, and a 62.5% rise in foster placements.

Wild animal admissions also rose by 5.6%, with teams at the National Wildlife Centre working around the clock to rehabilitate and release foxes, seals, birds of prey, and more.

New CEO Mark Bishop said: “The scale of need we’re seeing is significant – but so is the impact we’re having.

“Behind every statistic is an animal, a person, a family. I’m proud to be part of a team working every day to protect animals, support communities and create lasting change.

“Animal welfare depends on everyone, and this report shows just how vital that collective effort is – and why prevention, partnership and early action must remain our focus.”