As the cost-of-living crisis deepens more people are giving up their family pets.

The Battersea Dogs and Cats charity has taken in 206 dogs and 164 cats over the last few weeks.

And, the Dogs Trust reports it has currently 692 dogs in 21 centres across the UK.

Other charities report an increase of people handing back pets – many blaming the soaring costs.

Owners cite the cost of pet food and vets’ fees are “no longer manageable”.

Steven Craddock, at the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in southwest London said:

“We are concerned that’s going to be an increasing reason for people bringing their dogs in to Battersea.”

A black cocker spaniel was recently brought into the centre after being pushed out a car which then drove off at speed.

Many pets were brought “for comfort” during the Covid-19 lockdown period.

A steady return to work and rising costs has seen owners unable to cope.

The Woodgreen charity said applications to adopt animals have dropped to the 100s a month from around 10,000 during lockdowns

Adam Clowes, of Dogs Trust, said:

“This cost-of-living crisis has crept up on us a lot quicker than people ever expected.”