Key findings | The Animal Kindness Index | RSPCA - RSPCA
Key findings
We have high expectations of ourselves when it comes to protecting animal welfare, and we want governments to take greater responsibility too.
We want to be kinder to animals. But it’s not always easy and there’s often a gap between what we say we want to do and what we actually do.
We want to be kind to animals
There's no doubt that we want to be kind to animals and there's strong public support for animal welfare.
But the cost-of-living crisis is affecting how we care for animals
We are struggling to look after our pets in the way we want. Rising costs contribute to our struggle.
As a result animals are suffering
As budgets tighten, DIY solutions for pet care are growing and financial pressure may also be contributing to rising abandonment and neglect.
And there's a gap between what people say and what people do
What we say we believe and feel about animal welfare isn’t always reflected in our behaviour. Google search data reveals that there are thousands of searches every month for both dog costumes and dog breeds with genetic health problems.
We take responsibility, but also expect Governments to
We have high expectations of ourselves when it comes to animal welfare - 78% of people believe individuals are responsible for animal welfare. But the overwhelming majority think the government could and should do more.
Previous page: Kindness Index
Next page: Pet owners
Sections
Your local SPCA
The Animal Kindness Index 2023 was produced together with Scottish SPCA and Ulster SPCA. Find out more about your local SPCA.