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Thursday, November 20, 2008, 07:00
The economic downturn also means the problem is being compounded as fewer people can afford to give abandoned animals a new home.
It is feared the problem could worsen as pets bought as Christmas presents are turfed out after the holiday period, which is what often happens.
RSPCA Inspector Jackie Paradis revealed would-be owners are no longer willing to pay out £99 and £61 to adopt a cat or dog, respectively.
The charity's regional rescue centre in Clough Road, west Hull, is full to capacity, so staff are being forced to turn to other towns and cities to try to find homes for animals.
They are even appealing to local veterinary surgeries to take in animals after treatment has ceased until space can be found.
Insp Paradis, who covers the Hull and East Riding area, said: "I am sure pets are being abandoned in the area because owners can no longer afford to keep them.
"People don't want to adopt animals either, even though the prices are pretty good and include vaccination and neutering costs, as well as microchips.
"Nobody has the spare money."
The animal centre has room for 22 dogs with three puppy pens. In addition, there is space for 29 cats and other smaller pets.
Insp Paradis added: "It is a real headache for us.
"I am ringing up centres all over the country. Our drivers are really travelling out.
"We are ringing Chesterfield, Bradford and London just to get them rehomed.
"Just lately it has become really bad. It is getting harder and harder to get the animals in to a centre."
Anyone who wants to find out more about adopting a pet should call (01482) 341331.
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