As the cost of living continues to skyrocket, RSPCA have found a growing number of pet owners are finding themselves unable to afford the expenses associated with pet care.

Rotherham Dog Rescue is asking the public for help in their appeal for new kennels.

Lisa Park, 52, who has worked with the rescue for 20 years, said: “The adoption rate is the worst it’s been in the last 20 years.” 

Adoption rates soared during lockdown, but the current cost of living has resulted in a surge of animal surrenders at shelters across the country. 

Many shelters across the country are struggling to cope with the influx of pets, while many are concerned about the potential long-term impact on animal welfare. 

Park said: “Winter costs are high, and food bills are just getting higher and higher. It’s no wonder.”

RSPCA found in a recent survey that many pet owners are struggling to provide the level of care they desire due to rising expenses.

The cost of pet essentials has skyrocketed in the past year, with items like dog food and treats seeing increases of up to 32%. For example, a can of dog food that cost £0.79 in April 2023 now costs £1.05, while dog treats have risen from £1.65 to £1.93 on average.

Park said: “The rescue site is an old building, and the galvanised steel on the kennels is corroding. There are sharp bits poking out. We really need support and donations, otherwise we risk not being able to house any dogs.” 

The rescue is entirely donation-based and receives no council help. They currently have seven dogs in kennels who are being rehabilitated. One kennel costs £300 to replace, and six currently need repairing, bringing the total to £1800. 

Park said there are ‘many ways’ people can help: “Contact rescues to ask what they need. Some dogs have different diets and need different things. Any fundraising helps, and every £5 makes a difference.”