April 7, 2014
The RSPCA is urging pet owners to register with its Home Alone service to help prevent false reports of pets being abandoned.
Every school holidays, RSPCA Qld receives dozens of calls about animals being abandoned.
“While it appears to be an escalating problem, in many of these cases the animals have actually had someone assigned to look after them,” RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty said.
“The problem is that the animals’ owners have neglected to notify neighbours who then report the matter to us. I would urge anyone who leaves their pets in the care of family or friends to register with our Home Alone service.”
The Home Alone service was set up to alleviate the burden on already overworked Inspectors who were continually being called to investigate possible cases of neglect and cruelty during holiday periods.
“People can register their pet on our website and leave the name and contact details of the people taking care of the animal. That way we know whom to contact in case of emergencies,” Mr Beatty said.
RSPCA Queensland investigates more than 12,000 complaints of animal cruelty annually and reports of abandoned animals make up a large quantity of these complaints.
During holiday seasons these types of calls escalate.
“The good intentions of neighbours looking out for the welfare of your pet can often lead to unneeded investigation,” Mr Beatty said.
“Simply by completing your details on Home Alone when your family is going on holidays you can be reassured that RSPCA Inspectors will contact you or your animals’ nominated caregiver if a complaint is lodged or the animal ends up at an RSPCA refuge.”
