Danaher Animal Home, RSPCA, Braintree, warns of a waiting list.

A charity in Essex said it had a “large waiting list” for animals that people couldn’t care for any longer.

The expense of living increase and behavioral issues, according to Sam Garvey of the RSPCA’s Danaher Animal Home in Braintree, Essex.

More than 100 animals live there now, including dogs, cats, rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.

Ms Garvey explained, “We have a massive waiting list to try to get on top of… with animals still waiting to come in.”

“Donations are currently on the decline. We believe this is due to rising living costs.”

She said that the Covid lockdowns had increased the number of animals killed.

“A lot of animals were purchased at that time because it was the best moment for everyone,” she explained.

“They were at home, and now that life has returned to normal, those creatures no longer fit that lifestyle.”

Leah Beales, who works at the center, said she has seen a lot of animal behavior issues.

“Puppies who used to spend the entire day with their owners are now struggling,” she explained.

“Because they haven’t been introduced, they come in afraid, reactive, and aggressive around people and dogs.”

She explained that the organization works “day in and day out” to enhance their behavior in order to “find each family a dog that suits their living situation.”

The Braintree Area Foodbank’s project manager, Lee Ranson, stated that as the cost of living rises, more individuals are asking for pet food.

“Those who were on the verge of hardship are now being driven into destitution,” he remarked.