PET owners are being urged not to sell their pets through Facebook as they could be bought to be used for breeding or bait.  

As owners struggle to feed their animals or have had a change in circumstances due to the cost-of-living crisis, a Basingstoke rescue service has said it has seen an alarming amount of pets being sold on Facebook for free. 

Founder of Helping Dogs and Cats UK, Kirsty Wrightson said, in most situations, pet owners mean no harm, but they don't realise the severity of what they are doing.

Kirsty said owners are making their dogs more accessible to be bought by people who will use them for breeding and their cats to be used as bait. 

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Over the last few months, the rescue has faced its own crisis, receiving an influx of pets needing support. It is currently caring for around 50 animals and received six cats on January 10 alone. 

Kirsty explained the rise in animals is down to various reasons, such as owners sadly losing their homes and have had to move into rented accommodation where their pet can no longer live; they have to start working more than one job, so they no longer have time to look after their pet; or they cannot afford to pay for food or vet bills. 

In situations where an owner can no longer afford food or vet bills for their pet, the rescue will do all it can to support the owner and, in many cases, this support has meant that the owner no longer needs to get rid of their pet. 

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Kirsty said: "I wanted to raise awareness that even though at the rescue we are full, approach us, do not sell your animals on Facebook. Even if we are full, we have so many contacts and backup kennels we can use.

"We want to continue helping the local community with both rehoming and rehabilitation. We are not here to judge, we're here to help people"

 

In November last year, the rescue won ‘Highly Commended’ Cat Rescue of the Year at the Animal Star Awards. From the hundreds of nominations received the team were delighted to be recognised for its challenging work and dedication in helping animals in need across Hampshire. 

It has since been put forward for another award in recognition of its teamwork, and will find out if they have won next month.

For more information about Helping Dogs and Cats UK go to helpingdogsandcatsuk.org