RSPCA Cymru is bracing itself for a surge in abandoned animals; fearing the aftermath of the Covid-19 crisis could see more owners in Wales struggling to keep their pets.

The animal welfare charity typically sees abandonment levels peak in the summer months.

In 2019, between June and August, 1,133 animals in Wales were reported as abandoned to the RSPCA - with 25 being in Wrexham and 47 in Flintshire.

Across England and Wales, 16,519 animals were reported abandoned to the RSPCA during that time period - accounting for 30 per cent of all animals reported abandoned last year. During the summer months the charity had nearly 180 calls a day about dumped animals - including more than 5,600 about cats and over 6,400 concerning dogs.

Officers are now braced for an even bigger impact on their work this summer - as the financial impacts of the coronavirus pandemic start to be realised, and lockdown restrictions are gradually eased.

During the three months since lockdown began - across England and Wales - the RSPCA has received reports regarding 3,492 abandoned animals - approximately 40 calls a day - including 1,509 dogs, 1,165 cats, 299 small furry animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and ferrets, and 275 exotic pets.

An emergency appeal has been launched to help the RSPCA continue its vital rescue work - reaching animals in urgent need, including abandoned animals in all parts of Wales.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA’s animal rescue teams, said: “During lockdown we’ve seen pets become a source of comfort and support for people and it appears many people have taken on new animals.

"Fortunately during this time we’ve dealt with fewer abandoned pets however we are worried that as lockdown eases, people return to work, go on holidays or struggle financially we will be facing a massive surge of animal abandonments.

“Sadly summer tends to bring with it a surge in abandoned animals.

"We don’t know why but it may be a combination of the warmer weather making people feel less guilty about dumping a pet to fend for themselves and people doing away on holiday abandoning pets instead of arranging care for them.”

What people can do if they’re struggling to care for their pets:

• Ask friends and family for help

• Contact your vet about payment plans, discounts or vouchers for neutering or any other treatment needed

• Get in touch with local rehoming charities for advice

Visit the RSPCA website for welfare advice