Rising number of pets dumped in downturn

Pets are being abandoned across London in record numbers, the latest figures from Battersea Cats & Dogs Home show.

Staff say calls from owners who have to give up their pets have risen sharply in the last year. The total citing financial reasons to Battersea's three centres has doubled and in the last month alone, 65 dog and cat owners have contacted the charity because of housing or money problems.

Today Claire Horton, chief executive at Battersea, said: "Sadly pets can be an unfortunate victim of the recession. We do everything we can to help heartbroken owners."

Aaron LeBlanc from Streatham has been forced to give up his dog Shady the Staffordshire bull terrier cross because he can no longer afford him.

He said: "I lost my job four months ago and have tried really hard to find work, but now I'm worried that I might lose my home. Shady's my best friend and I've had him for two years but I can't afford him any more."

Batterseas is tonight hosting its Collars & Coats fundraising ball.