Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home receives 1,635 pet 'surrender' requests amid soaring demand

A Scottish animal rescue centre has processed 1,635 surrender requests from people unable to look after their pets this year.

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home has called for a “final wave of support” from the public to cover costs after record-breaking demand for its services in 2024.

The home aims to raise £134,000 with its winter appeal to cover the rising care costs, including £22,000 for heating bills over the colder months.

Over the past year, it has processed 1,635 surrender requests, nearly matching the estimated dog population of Edinburgh’s EH1 postcode.

The rise in demand this year has brought “extraordinary challenges” for Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, leaving the home in a position where it has no choice but to turn people away.

Between January and June 2024, the helpline handled 17,995 calls, exceeding the 17,021 calls received in all of 2023.

The calls amounted to 872 hours of support, which is equivalent to watching all of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films 44 times.

The home says despite the rising challenges, hard-working staff have been able to find loving homes for 216 cats and dogs.

It also reunited 95 missing pets with their families.

Beyond rehoming animals, the Home provides “vital emotional support” to pet owners through its helpline, offering advice and guidance.

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, said it has seen an “overwhelming” demand for services in 2024.

“Each call we take, and each family we support, reminds us why this work is so vital,” she added.

“Our Winter Appeal is about ensuring we can continue being a beacon of hope for pets and their people in the toughest of times. Every donation, big or small, makes a real difference.”

Staggering operational costs mean that every penny raised will ensure that the animals of the home are well cared for this winter.

To support the Winter Appeal, visit Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home official website.