The RSPCA is urging the public to consider adopting a pet instead of buying as rescue centres face an 'animal welfare crisis'.
A surge of animals at the charity has led to more than 1,400 of them currently housed in private boarding centres, costing approximately £500,000 monthly.
"Our rescue and rehoming centres are at breaking point," said Karen Colman, head of animal logistics and welfare oversight.
“Sadly, more animals in need are coming into us all the time - many who have been the victims of awful cruelty, abuse and neglect - and rehoming rates have struggled in recent years as many families feel the pinch of the cost of living crisis and make the decision not to take on a pet."
The RSPCA cannot rehome animals directly from private kennels; 503 dogs are currently in private boarding centres with more than 200 of them awaiting rehoming once RSPCA centre spaces become available.
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