On Air Now Nick Osborne 10:00am - 3:00pm Cathy Dennis - Touch Me Schedule

RSPCA Launches Urgent Drive For Isle Of Wight Foster Carers

Credit: ACD Projects.

The RSPCA is urging Islanders to consider fostering animals as the number of rescues continues to climb.

A shocking new statistic reveals 700 rescued animals are waiting for a space across the UK's RSPCA centres.

This includes 40 animals at the RSPCA centre in Godshill.

The charity estimates it is paying £26,000 a week to private boarders for the temporary care of hundreds of rescued animals, with its 59 rehoming centres “full to bursting”.

Brian Reeves, head of volunteering at the RSPCA, said: “We are struggling - including on the Isle of Wight.

“We are in the middle of an animal crisis and we can only see it getting worse over the winter months as the cost of living crisis bites.

“Getting pets into loving foster homes - especially ahead of the winter months - will be a lifeline to our frontline officers and the animals in danger we need to rescue.”

In total, 691 animals are currently being boarded in temporary care with private boards due to a lack of space at centres.

This includes 120 dogs, 144 cats, 112 rabbits, eight small furry animals, 38 exotic birds, 35 birds, 132 equines and 102 farm animals.

Those interested in applying to be an RSPCA fosterer can do so online via the RSPCA's volunteering portal.

The RSPCA provides foster carers with all the financial, emotional and some logistical support they need in providing temporary care for the animal, including any medication the pet may be taking and funding for any ongoing veterinary treatment.

More from Isle of Wight News