18 pets have been abandoned in East Yorkshire during the closure

The RSPCA received reports of 18 stray pets in East Yorkshire during the shutdown.

The organization has released the figures as part of its emergency appeal, launched to keep its rescue teams on track during the coronavirus crisis and to continue rescuing the neediest animals.

Since the UK closed on March 23, the RSPCA has reported 1,663 incidents of neglect to its cruelty hotline across the country, an average of 40 incidents per day.

The government has designated animal rescue teams at the charity as key workers, but vital funds are needed to help RSPCA frontline personnel continue this crucial work in England and Wales.

Dermot Murphy, head of RSPCA’s rescue teams, said: “Although much of the country is locked up, unfortunately there are still thousands of animals that need our help, including abandoned pets.

“Many people are finding that their pets are a real source of comfort in these times of anxiety and, fortunately, abandonment cases are a little lower than usual, but it is heartbreaking that some animals are abandoned during this crisis.”

“In most cases, we don’t know why pets are abandoned, but it’s really important to remind people that there is no evidence to suggest that Covid-19 can be passed from pets to people.”

“There is a lot of help and support for anyone else who is struggling to get animal feed, with health or behavioral issues, exercising their pets, or managing to keep children safe near pets. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. ”

During the closure period, the RSPCA has responded to more than 27,000 incidents, and the number of animals served by the RSPCA in centers, hospitals, and veterinary surgeries has also increased by hundreds, with more than 4,300 animals currently in the care of the charity.

The RSPCA is also urging pet owners to make an emergency plan for pet care in case they are admitted to the hospital with Coronavirus, including placing a poster in the window informing people that there are pets inside.