RSPCA concerned about impact of housing crisis on people and pets

RSPCA Victoria wants to hear from people needing help

RSPCA Victoria is starting to see the broader impacts of the housing crisis with many people stuck living in cars with pets, according to Warrnambool shelter manager Tracey Scott.

“Pets provide so much comfort and mental health support – particularly for those experiencing hard times. However, keeping them in cars can result in hardship for both people and pets. Keeping pets in cars can generate other problems such as behavioural issues, which then make the situation even more difficult.”

Apart from the concerns regarding overall psychological and physical health, as summer approaches hyperthermia becomes a risk for pets living in cars. This is potentially fatal – dogs can overheat and die in hot cars in as little as six minutes.

Additionally, behavioural problems associated with excessive confinement may present, and include loss of previous house training, territorial aggression, compulsive behaviours, depression and anxiety.

Ms Scott said RSPCA Victoria is keen to speak to people who may be currently experiencing homelessness to find ways to support them to look after their pets at this difficult time.

“We are keen to hear from those affected in order to better understand what could be helpful. This may include providing emergency boarding for their pets, assisting with food or flea treatments, or providing behavioural support for those attempting to live in emergency accommodation with their pets.

“We are limited in resources to help people, but hopefully by helping them to keep their pets healthy we can remove at least one pressure during a stressful situation,” said Ms Scott.

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