Over 5,000 animals throughout Ayrshire were helped by the Scottish SPCA during the one of the most “challenging” years in their history.

The charity responded to reports of 5,267 animals in need and rehomed 109 pets in the area - citing the cost-of-living crisis as having a major impact on animal welfare.

Scottish SPCA chief executive Kirsteen Campbell said: “Through our animal helpline and inspectors, the Scottish SPCA has a unique insight into the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on people and their pets.

“One of the cruellest aspects of the cost-of-living crisis has been that we’ve had to take more animals in, whilst finding it harder to rehome them due to people’s weariness to take on an animal during such an uncertain time.”

“We piloted a fostering service in summer 2022, and we will be expanding this throughout 2023 to get animals into the right environment quickly, and maximise use of the free space we have to get animals who really need help into our care.

“This service is in the spirit of doing the best we possibly can for animals as we navigate the current economic and societal challenges.”

Compared to 2021, last year the charity received over three times the number of calls from people across Scotland wanting to give up their pets.

In total the charity received 252,265 calls from people across Scotland last year.

To help pet owners cope with costs, the charity began their Pet Aid initiative throughout select areas including South Ayrshire – via the South Ayrshire Foodbank - in August 2022.

The scheme allows pet owners to access food and supplies for their animals in 35 foodbanks around Scotland.

Kirsteen added: “Prevention is in our name and Pet Aid allows us to prevent suffering by not only providing food and supplies to those who need it, instead of picking up the pieces after things have gone wrong.”

“The best thing for animal welfare is to keep a human and a pet together, and that’s what our overriding ambition is through this crisis.”

Organised crime such as the puppy trade, animal fighting and badger baiting was also identified as affecting animal welfare by the Scottish SPCA.

Kirsteen said: “Sadly, there are those out there who can and do exploit animals for their own gain.

“Our Special Investigations Unit is at the forefront of the fight against these people and has ensured a number of them face justice through unparalleled case work.

“We’ll continue to educate all and demand policy change until we eradicate such practices.”