Barratt Developments Scotland has actually introduced an animal food collection drive in assistance of animal well-being charities as research study exposes 15% of UK owners have actually needed to quit animals due to the cost-of-living crisis.
Starting this April – which is National Pet Month – the housebuilder is asking groups throughout its departments to contribute animal food for the next 2 months. Goods will later on be handed into animal well-being charity SSPCA’s animal food bank service, Pet Aid, which assists those having a hard time to pay for the cost of food.
It follows the Tackling the Cost of Living Crisis – 2023 Report by Barratt Developments PLC – that includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes – discovered that of the quarter of Scots (26%) who purchased an animal throughout lockdown, 15% have actually needed to take it to a rescue centre as an outcome of increasing household expenses.
The research study, which surveyed 2,000 customers from throughout the UK who are purchasing or thinking about purchasing a brand-new home in the next 2 years, discovered that increasing rates are impacting any age groups. When it pertains to animal owners, the younger generation are feeling the capture the most, with those aged 25 to 34 the most likely to have actually returned lockdown animals to save money (28%).
There was a rise in individuals acquiring animals throughout the pandemic when they had more time to spend at home, now that the financial outlook is altering, this pattern is reversing. In addition, over half of those who moved into a larger house are now thinking about scaling down to save money.
Douglas McLeod, handling director of Barratt Developments Scotland, said: “People are faced with making very tough decisions as a result of the cost-of-living crisis – whether that be moving home, or finding ways to reduce household bills. Having pets in the family means there are more bowls to fill, and this report confirms the sad reality that for some, that’s simply not an option when money is tight.
“We believe that no pet should have to go hungry, and no one should have to choose between feeding themselves or feeding their pets. That’s why we’re supporting the SSPCA with a donation to its pet food bank, in hopes that it will help those who are struggling and prevent animals going to rescue.”
SSPCA Pet Aid planner, Carrie Giannelli, said: “The support from Barratt Homes Scotland this month will help us enormously. Our Pet Aid service supports people who are struggling with the cost of caring for an animal, and we have seen demand for the service skyrocket due to the continuing cost-of-living crisis.
“Through Pet Aid, we provide essential food supplies for animals through a network of food banks across most of Scotland. We are currently supporting 40 food banks in 17 local authorities and already have a further 16 foodbanks who are looking to join. A full list of foodbanks where Pet Aid is available can be found on our website.
“Anyone struggling to care for their pet can call the Society’s animal helpline in strict confidence on 03000 999 999 for help and advice.”
