More pets abandoned

Updated 12.54 Mon Apr 23 2007

Keywords: Ricky Gervais, dogs, cats, RSPCA, pets

The number of unwanted pets has risen sharply by more than 40 per cent, a leading animal charity has said.

The RSPCA rescued 9,506 abandoned or unwanted animals last year in comparison to 6,590 in the previous year - an increase of 44 per cent.

For the second year cats have proved the least popular animal with their owners the most likely to decide they no longer wanted them

For the second year cats are the least-wanted pets, the RSPCA has found.

Andy Foxcroft, chief officer of RSPCA inspectorate, said: "We rescue a staggering number of animals from a wide range of difficult, distressing and often surprising situations each year.

"But what strikes me particularly about our latest figures is the huge number of animals we rescue simply because their owners no longer want them.

"With the new Animal Welfare Act now in force - which means owners are legally obliged to find out about their pet's particular needs and care for it properly - we really hope more people will consider the full responsibility they are taking on before getting an animal."

He added: "Hopefully this will mean the RSPCA rescuing fewer unwanted animals."

Award-winning comedian Ricky Gervais who is a cat owner, said: "The RSPCA works round the clock rescuing thousands of animals every year and gives them the chance of a new life, but to carry on they need your help."