More than three tonnes of pet food has already been donated to pet owners who are struggling to cope with spiralling living costs, thanks to a partnership between Amazon.co.uk and the RSPCA this ‘Adoptober’.
Shoppers are being invited to make an extra pet-related purchase on Amazon.co.uk during October – which will then be donated to the animal charity and then distributed via its successful pet food bank scheme.
The animal charity has teamed up with more than 150 food banks and 35 RSPCA branches to provide pet food and essentials to those owners who are struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.
Any additional purchases made by generous Amazon customers will be sent into the RSPCA food bank network and will be distributed to pet owners. In addition Amazon.co.uk are also donating profits from the sale to the animal welfare charity.
Already 3,529kg (7,185lb) of pet food has been donated through the partnership in its first two weeks, along with 130 healthcare supplements, 132 pet toys, 15 collars and 13 mattresses.
Alison Fletcher, RSPCA national food bank coordinator pictured, said: “Sadly our frontline rescuers see on a daily basis how financially difficult times are for many. We come across a lot of people struggling to care for their beloved pets more than ever – sometimes they will go without themselves to ensure their dog or cat has enough food.
“The RSPCA wants to do everything it can to help keep loving owners and their pets together during the cost-of-living crisis and if some people need assistance we are keen to do what we can to help.
“Our Pet Food Bank Partnership supplies many food banks with pet products to help those using the service for themselves to also provide for their animals.
“This generous partnership with Amazon.co.uk means we can help even more people and their pets. Already, more than three tonnes of pet food have been donated just half-way through the month.
We do understand how important pets are in tough times like these and are keen to help them stay in their loving homes by offering pet food and supplies that they may need.”
The scheme is running during October as part of the RSPCA’s month-long Adoptober rehoming campaign which aims to shine a light on the many animals who are still waiting for their forever home.
The charity’s rehoming centres are full as more pets are coming into rescue than are being adopted right now, with a six percent increase in dogs and a four percent rise in cats reported between 2021 and 2022.
Eleanor Goode, Pet Products Category Leader, at Amazon UK, said: “We are thrilled to support the RSPCA in their vital work to protect and care for animals, especially during these challenging times.
“Offering our customers the chance to donate items that we know the RSPCA need, directly to shelters across the UK, fills us with immense pride. Animals play such an important role in our communities, and at Amazon, we are committed to supporting our local communities and the incredible organisations that operate within them.
“So, let’s join hearts to make this October a month of compassion and giving. Visit amazon.co.uk/rspca, choose your donation, and know that you’re making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.”
A recent survey (Kindness Index) carried out by the RSPCA indicated that 81% of pet owners say it’s more expensive to look after their pets – as the cost of living crisis continues to bite.
To help pet owners in need the charity has also set up a dedicated cost of living support package for worried pet owners, including a recently-opened telephone helpline on 0300 123 0650 and an online hub.
