Animal charity calls on public to adopt cats and dogs

5:09pm Wednesday 25th April 2001

AN ANIMAL charity claims the number of cats and dogs being adopted has plummeted because people are reluctant to offer them a home in light of the foot and mouth crisis.

Needy cases at kennels and catteries used by South Bucks RSPCA will have to be put on a waiting list if the situation does not change.

Pat Edgar, charity spokesman, said the number of animals being adopted has slowed down dramatically over the past month.

She added: "The public seem to be waiting until the disease is halted before taking on a new pet, although there are no cases of the disease within the county and neither cats nor dogs can be infected."

The charity is also seeking foster homes for cats who are waiting to be adopted.

These cats are re-housed quickly and the charity meets all the animal's costs.

Some of the animals have special needs and cannot be left alone for a length of time, so fostering is better suited to those who work from home or part-time.

To offer a permanent home to an unwanted pet call (01494) 819967, for cats and dogs (01494) 481026, or to foster (01494) 819967.