- In 2021, almost 10 percent more animals were brought to the shelter by their keepers than in the previous year.
- Most of them were dogs or cats that had been acquired during the home office period, as the Swiss Animal Protection (STS) notes.
According to the now published STS animal welfare statistics, over 13,500 pets were taken in in Swiss animal shelters and sanctuaries last year. Of these, over 9200 animals could be placed.
Around 1700 animals were taken back by their owners and around 1000 animals had to be euthanized for veterinary reasons. The STS notes that strict protective measures due to the pandemic have made visiting and placement activities significantly more difficult.
Especially cats and dogs were deported
Among the recorded animals were 7724 cats, 2012 dogs, 2220 rodents and 1555 birds, turtles, horses and exotic animals. 7131 animals were handed in by their owners. 5456 animals were found and 937 animals came from official confiscations. Here, the STS found a decrease of 302 animals compared to the previous year. In addition, 9873 fish were recorded.
According to the STS, in addition to turtles (742), other reptiles (228) such as snakes and lizards are increasingly being bought thoughtlessly and then deported to an animal shelter or abandoned by overwhelmed keepers. Authorities and animal welfare are confronted with illegally imported animals and the inadequate or illegal keeping of animals, whose admission, care and placement require special expertise.