Rise in unwanted pets puts Northamptonshire animal charity under pressure

Holly Sanderson is appealing for people to support Northamptonshire Animals in Need, who have just marked their busiest year.

The former volunteer told The Gusher: “Despite the pandemic stopping our day to day lives functioning like normal, Animals In Need have had one of their busiest years to date.

“Just last week they had around 60 animals handed in and had numerous wildlife rescues that are now being treated in their busy wildlife unit.”

She said coronavirus has led to an influx of people having animals and not being able to cope.

“We call them ‘pandemic pets’,” added Holly.

“A lot of these animals are being handed in for things such as behavioural issues, mainly due to lack of socialisation during lockdown and separation anxiety, and people realising they just don’t have time for the responsibility that comes with having a pet.

“In the past two months the charity has run up over £17,000 in bills, for things such as veterinary care, bedding, feed etc. The list of things the sanctuary is having to pay for is never ending.”

She said the pandemic has led to a halt in usual fundraising methods.

“With the amount of animals coming into their care increasing, and the number of funds coming in decreasing, they need our support more than ever.”

Donations can be given to www.justgiving.com/Animals-in-need