RSPCA prevents pets as presents
The RSPCA closed many of its shelter doors for Christmas, in order to prevent people giving pets as presents.
The charity says it is in the midst of a crisis this year, as the number of abandoned animals has risen. It believes this increase is due to the rise in the cost of living, which has left owners struggling to cope with their pet's costs.
Staff at the RSPCA's Rochdale Animal Centre in Greater Manchester are using every available space to house the animals that have come into their care.
Abandoned animals at the centre include terrapins, cockatoos, gerbils, hamsters and degus. Staff say these exotic creatures are often given up because people don't understand their complex needs, for example, that degus need a sugar-free, fat-free diet.
The centre takes animals from inspectors, but says it is always busy - with over 80 cats waiting to come in.
Jean Spencer, the centre's manager, said: "I think people who want to get rid of their pets don't realise they're part of the family, that they're for life. And it's sad that people think like that."
She added that people getting rid of their pets is on the increase all the time but that the RSPCA looks for "forever homes" for its animals.
RSPCA reported that more than 350 animals have been rescued from abandonment by its staff in just the first half of December. It also reports that, since the 2007 credit crunch, it has experienced a 65 per cent increase in the number of animals abandoned and a 23.5 per cent increase in animal cruelty convictions.
Click here to hear more from Jean and what animals are housed the centre this Christmas.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
