The Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has launched a Winter Appeal to raise funds.
The centre, which has been in operation for 140 years, supports dogs and cats across East and Central Scotland by caring for and rehoming animals, undertaking preventative community work and running a network of pet food banks.
In July, the Home received its highest number of surrender requests on record – a 236% increase from October 2022 – and, despite rehoming 167 dogs and 81 cats between January and August 2023, the home has also only been able to take in 8.8% of the surrender requests.
The centre is entirely dependent on funding from public donations and the assistance of volunteer support to help its staff, and winter is historically a difficult season as high energy prices drain funds while demand for services increases.
Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, ceo of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said: “We have seen a devastating increase in the number of surrender requests that we have received this year due to various factors including financial difficulties, behavioural issues and personal circumstances. We have supported pets for 140 years and it’s so important now, more so than ever, that we continue to receive donations and help provide dogs with a safe place to recover, find love and also enable owners going through hard times to stay together with their pets.
“We don’t judge anyone or their circumstances and know that the rise in the cost of living has caused some to struggle to make ends meet. Winter can be especially tough and we are appealing to those who can to make a donation. £20 can provide a cat with the vaccinations they require to be rehomed or £100 could keep a dog warm in the Home for three months.”
Donations can be made via text, or via the website www.edch.org.uk/winterappeal.
