Rise in number of dumped animals (From News Shopper)

Rise in number of dumped animals

11:22am Thursday 3rd May 2007

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FIGURES released by the RSPCA have revealed a 16.1 per cent increase in the number of unwanted animals in the region.

Last year, the RSPCA rescued 33,451 animals across the south east, compared with 28,813 animals in 2005.

RSPCA inspector for Woolwich, Plumstead, Abbey Wood and Thamesmead, Marije Zwager, said: "A lot of people move away and don't make provisions to look after their pets.

"Many people prefer to leave their pets behind.

"It's a common and ongoing problem and isn't getting any better.

"People don't always neuter their animals, so you get more and more stray animals.

"If people can't afford it, we can arrange it for free."

News Shopper reported in October how the Celia Hammond Animal Trust was in danger of grinding to a halt because too many abandoned cats had been left at its doors.

The situation has not really changed at the centre in Lewisham Way, Lewisham.

It currently has 115 cats which need to be rehomed.

Trust founder Celia Hammond said: "It is sickening and very upsetting so many cats are still being abandoned.

"We need to promote responsible cat ownership, and this means not letting your cats breed."

Miss Hammond also believes there would not be as many abandoned cats if they were neutered - a service which the centre will provide for free if owners cannot afford it.

To adopt a cat or for details on neutering, call the trust on 020 8691 2100.

Visit celiahammond.org for more information on the charity.

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