Scottish SPCA reports a 24% rise in pet relinquishment requests due to cost-of-living pressures. They are increasing early support.
Last year, 4,779 people called for advice, which is about 92 calls each week. The SPCA will give more early help and hope to stop problems from getting worse. Staff will work in local areas, offering support before animals suffer.
In 2024, the SPCA assisted 16,478 owners in keeping their pets. Inspectors gave advice to these people, and Pet Aid gave food and supplies. It supports food banks across Scotland.
Pet Aid Veterinary started six months ago and treated 489 animals needing care. The service is testing in Glasgow now, with nurses visiting homes for basic checkups.
Animals needing more help go to their center. The SSPCA also restarted a matching service, helping people find pets to adopt, getting animals into homes faster.
Adoptions rose 13% in 2024, while fostering increased by 30%. This resulted in animals spending 30% less time in care.
The chief executive wants to fix problems and help communities. Helping early can stop big problems, as inspectors see sad situations now. Early help could keep pets out of care.
In 2025, the SPCA will do more and change how they work. They will focus on the areas that need it most. The goal is to help more animals and people stay together.