AN animal shelter has taken in a record number of animals in one month, with bosses blaming the cost of living crisis.

The RSPCA Danaher Animal Home, in Wethersfield, took in 140 animals in August.

The high number is believed to be a result of the cost of living crisis as more people give up their pets or abandon them.

More animals are also being removed due to cruelty or neglect.

Centre staff say they have been overwhelmed and are receiving four to five calls a day from pet owners wanting to give up their animals.

It is an increased strain on the centre, which costs around £70,000 a month to run.

Animal welfare supervisor Craig Horsler said: “It's shocking to think we have taken in so many animals in just a month and shows how dire the situation is for animals at the moment.

“While we have had large numbers come in at the centre before, this is different.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult month for us as we want to help all the animals we can, but we only have a certain number of spaces and we are full, so we still have a waiting list of people asking us to take on their animals.

“Some people who call us are desperate and it does feel a lot is down to the cost of living crisis - such as people being evicted from their homes and not able to take their animals to rented accommodation.

“Every day we are trying to find a way to take more in. It is a very difficult and overwhelming time for us all here.”

Mr Horsler added: “We do need the public’s help. If someone is thinking of taking on an animal, please consider getting a rescue first.

“In some ways, you are helping two animals - the one you give a forever home to and you then free up space for us to take in another animal.

“Or if you can’t do that then people can sponsor an animal while they are in our care or become a fosterer.

“We know times are tough for everyone right now - but any little help you can give to the centre - will go directly into helping all the wonderful animals we are caring for - all who desperately deserve a second chance.”

To find out more about how you can help, visit danaheranimalhome.org.uk.