THE RSPCA is preparing for a surge in abandoned animals as it fears the fallout from the coronavirus crisis could see more owners struggling to keep their pets.

The charity usually sees abandonment peak in the summer – between June and August 2019, 16,519 animals were reported abandoned to the RSPCA, 30 per cent of all animals reported abandoned that year. The charity received 276 reports about dumped animals in Somerset during the summer months.

RSPCA head of animal rescue teams Dermot Murphy said: “During lockdown we’ve seen pets become a source of comfort and support for people. 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.

“I’d urge anyone struggling with their pet to ask for help. Animals have been there to help us through the crisis, please don’t abandon them now.”