Now in it’s 13th year, International Homeless Animals’ Day is an initiative started by the International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR) and focuses on the growing problem of the overpopulation of cats and dogs across the globe.

International Homeless Animals’ Day is the first and only worldwide event to address the urgent need for spay and neuter programs.

Are un-neutered animals a concern for the UK?

In England there are no laws that say you have to spay or neuter your cat or dog. It is entirely your choice as the owner whether your pet has the procedure. In this country there are very few incidents of accidental pregnancy in dogs, and those that do occur are usually isolated incidents, so unlike other countries where street dogs are prevalent, it’s not a concern in the UK.

Likewise, we have fewer stray cats in England than other countries, however, cats are often free to roam during their lives, returning to their homes for love, affection, food and shelter and this can result in numerous unwanted pregnancies and some strays.

RSPCA Oxfordshire has first-hand experience of stray cats and abandoned litters in our area. The ‘skip kits’ that were found in a skip in Witney and baby Bean are two examples in just one month, with other cat charities experiencing similar stories.

How does International Homeless Animals’ Day help?

All across the world, ISAR holds awareness and fundraising events that support neutering schemes for animal shelters.

‘Free spay and neuter events took place in Brazil, Moldova, Finland, Panama, Trinidad, and Venezuela. Together with the sterilization surgeries that took place on International Homeless Animals’ Day, organizations, veterinarians, and municipal government officials provided vouchers to the public for subsidized and free spay and neuter surgeries.’ ISAR International Homeless Animals’ Day

ISAR encourages vet surgeries, and animal support organisations to take part in voucher schemes and awareness campaigns, to help reduce the huge numbers of homeless animals, and unwanted pregnancies across the world.

But how can I help homeless animals in Oxfordshire?

As a business or organisation, you can find out more about taking part, and get help to plan your International Homeless Animals’ Day event on the ISAR website.

As a pet owner, please consider neutering or spaying as a method of reducing the numbers of homeless animals and pets in foster care and shelters. If you need help towards the cost of your vet bill for neutering or spaying, find out more about how we can help you cover it, in our blog, ‘Get Help With the Cost of Neutering Your Pets’.

RSPCA Oxfordshire is always in need of foster carers for our animals, including cats, dogs, rabbits and small furries. If you’d like to support a homeless animal into a loving home, please get in touch with us on info@rspcaoxford.org.uk.