RSPCA SA faces skyrocketing animal numbers during 7-day lockdown

Despite a record year for adoptions, RSPCA South Australia is caring for twice as many animals than it was during the 2020 November lockdown.

An extended kitten season doubled with an influx of abandoned, neglected and homeless animals has seen numbers across all three shelters skyrocket to over 600.

The Head of Animal Operations Tim Charles has said that addressing shelter numbers during the covid lockdown will be particularly challenging.

“Of the 600 animals in our care, only 62 are ready to go up for adoption. Many still require veterinary treatment and behavioural support,” he said.

“Although the November lockdown of last year was quite short, we only had 300 animals in our care.”

RSPCA South Australia’s finances are also expected to take a dive during the 7-day lockdown with the closure of Op Shops, hosted fundraisers and animal training classes.

Commercial Operations Manager Ben Dawson, says there will be an estimated loss of $50,000.

“These income streams won’t be available for animals in our care. Last year the community was really generous in helping us through the lockdown and I’m hoping we can all band together again,” he said.

In order to aid its essential animal services, RSPCA South Australia has launched a Winter Lockdown Appeal. Donations can be made via the link below.

https://support.rspcasa.org.au/lockdown/?&nfmp_page=0

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