RSPCA warns rise in 'starter pet' interest could lead to increase in neglect and cruelty

Figures reveal the RSPCA dealt with 232 Hampshire incidents last year involving small furry pets - including rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters.

Nationally, figures for people searching on Google for small pets to buy during lockdown soared compared to the year before, with searches for ‘rabbits for sale’ more than tripling from 18,000 in July 2019 to 65,000 in July 2020.

Searches for ‘hamsters for sale’ tripled from 10,000 in July 2019 to 30,000 in July 2020 and ‘guinea pigs for sale’ doubled from 19,000 to 40,000.

The RSPCA rescue teams also took nearly 240 rabbits into care between March 23 and August 31 due to cruelty, neglect and abandonment.

Dr Jane Tyson, from the RSPCA’s Companion Animals Department, said: ‘Small furries can be fantastic pets to have, however they have a reputation as a good ‘starter pet’ for children as there is a misconception that they are easy to look after, but they actually have quite complex needs.

‘For example, rabbits need to live in pairs as they are sociable animals - and need a much bigger space to explore and exercise in than just a hutch.

‘While we believe many people buy a rabbit, guinea pig, hamster or other small furry with good intentions, and many will also do their research, there is a risk that not enough research is being done and we are concerned that this could lead to an increase in neglect of small furries in the months to come.’

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Hundreds of small animals are looking for new homes, including ferrets Dorothy, Pippin and Banjo at the Stubbington Ark.

Needing to be rehomed together, the mischievous 13-month-old trio have been described as ideal first pets for first-time ferret owners.

Another animal in Stubbington needing a home is guinea pig Waffle, who is very shy and needs someone to build his confidence of being handled.

Waffle is neutered and is looking for his forever home with either a single or group of female guinea pigs.

Visit stubbingtonark.org.uk for more information about these animals or others who are needing homes.

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