More Than 4,000 Animals Rehomed By RSPCA On The Isle Of Wight In Last Decade

The RSPCA has revealed that it has found loving new homes for more than 4,000 animals in a decade on the Isle of Wight, with the remarkable rehoming feat revealed to mark its 200th birthday in 2024.

The charity has come a long way since 1824 - when founding members of the charity met in a coffee shop in London determined to change animals’ lives, creating the then SPCA and sparking an animal welfare movement that spread around the world.

Now - as the RSPCA enters its landmark 200th anniversary year - the charity wants to inspire a one million strong movement for animals, as the charity aims to "create a better world for every animal".

Today the Isle of Wight is served by RSPCA rescuers who save animals and investigate cruelty while also offering welfare advice and help to pet owners in need. 

The Island is also home to independent RSPCA branch - RSPCA Isle of Wight Branch - who rehabilitate and rehome rescued animals. The separately registered charity raises money locally to support the animal welfare work they do.

Many will have endured horrendous suffering but with the care of dedicated staff and volunteers they will be helped to recover before they are found loving homes.

The latest available figures show that in the ten years up until the end of 2022 new homes have been found for a staggering 4.126 animals in the county. Additionally they have helped pet owners in the county by providing: 

• 1.671 neuters (to stop unwanted pregnancies and promote responsible ownership) 

• 1,709  microchips - to help reunite lost pets with their owners

Nationally the charity has rehomed 405,839 pets in need of a new home since 2013 thanks to its network of 140 branches and animal centres across England and Wales - which equates to 111 animals every day.

Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner (pictured with a rescued cat), said: 

“We have even more animals in need of help coming into our care - but at the same time rehoming has been declining sharply, meaning thousands fewer rescue pets are being adopted and our branches and centres are full to bursting.

“We are also faced with increased bills and less donations due to the cost of living crisis which is one of the biggest challenges facing animal welfare right now - and this economic hardship is continuing into our 200th anniversary year.

“We’re currently asking supporters to Join the Winter Rescue by donating to help our rescue teams reach the thousands of animals who desperately need them.