By KLTV Newsdesk –

Five Years On: Lockdown’s Lasting Impact on Animal Welfare

As the UK marks five years since the first COVID-19 lockdown, the RSPCA has warned that the repercussions for animal welfare are still being felt on an enormous scale.

The charity highlights a troubling rise in pet abandonment, socialisation issues in dogs, and economic challenges affecting pet owners.

Animal Abandonment on the Rise

The RSPCA received 22,503 reports of animal abandonment last year—more than in any year since the pandemic began.

The charity fears that some pet owners, unprepared for the long-term responsibility of animal care, may have resorted to drastic measures.

With many of its rescue centres at full capacity, the RSPCA is currently funding the care of 1,220 animals in private boarding while they await space in shelters.

The influx of abandoned animals continues to outpace rehoming efforts, creating a persistent challenge for the organisation.

Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA’s Head of Companion Animals, said: “While many pets found amazing new homes during the pandemic, we know not all animals were so lucky.

“The boredom of lockdown and temporary lifestyle changes, including increased loneliness, led to impulse pet purchases.

“Unfortunately, some owners later found themselves unable or unwilling to care for their pets, even resorting to abandonment.

“Five years on, the impact for animals is still being felt on a huge scale.”

Pandemic Socialisation Challenges

The effects of lockdown on animal behaviour continue to surface. COVID-19 restrictions led to a halt in non-urgent veterinary procedures such as neutering and microchipping.

Additionally, the suspension of puppy socialisation classes has had long-term consequences for many dogs’ behavioural development.

Searches for ‘Can I give my dog paracetamol?’ have spiked in recent years, with 44,900 Google searches recorded between April 2023 and March 2024, suggesting more people may be attempting to self-prescribe treatments for their pets.

Dr Gaines explained: “For young pups, early socialisation and structured training are critical. Lockdown restrictions meant these vital experiences were lost, and we are still seeing the behavioural challenges this has caused.

“Furthermore, with routine vet visits disrupted, some owners may now be more inclined to self-diagnose and treat their pets, particularly given the ongoing cost of living crisis.”

Image Credit: RSPCA

Financial Pressures Add to the Burden

The pandemic has been widely linked to the current cost-of-living crisis, which continues to impact pet owners. According to the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index:

• 36% of pet owners have changed their behaviour due to financial pressures in the past year.
• 15% of owners regretted getting a pet in 2024.
• 78% said it has become more expensive to care for their pet.

Dr Gaines added: “The cost of living crisis is, for many, a lasting legacy of the pandemic. It has presented one of the most significant challenges for animal welfare in recent times.

“While the RSPCA has introduced initiatives like a cost of living hub and expanded its Pet Food Bank scheme, it remains a difficult time for many pet owners.”

Farm Animal Welfare Concerns

The RSPCA has also observed troubling trends in farm animal welfare. A surge in backyard poultry-keeping during the pandemic has led to increased cases of abandoned chickens.

Beth Winspear, from the RSPCA’s farm animals team, explained: “Chicken ownership became a pandemic trend, but sadly, some people realised too late that they were unprepared for the commitment. In extreme cases, this has led to reports of abandoned birds.”

Additionally, the cost of living crisis has made it harder to promote higher-welfare meat, eggs, and dairy products.

Despite financial pressures, two-thirds of consumers still report buying higher-welfare products when possible.

Winspear said: “With over a billion farm animals reared annually in the UK, choosing higher welfare options is one way people can help improve animal lives. Even small changes can make a significant impact.”

Image Credit: RSPCA

A Call for Action

Despite these challenges, the RSPCA remains hopeful about the future of animal welfare. A recent survey found that 68% of Brits consider themselves animal lovers.

Dr Gaines urged those looking to adopt a pet to consider rescuing from shelters. She also encouraged the public to support animal welfare campaigns and volunteer their time to charities.

“While the effects of the first lockdown are still being felt, there is much we can do to help. From adopting rescue pets to backing stronger animal welfare laws, together we can work towards a kinder, more compassionate world for all animals.”

To shape the future of animal welfare, the RSPCA has launched The Big Conversation, inviting the public to share their ideas on improving animal care post-pandemic. More details can be found on the RSPCA’s website.