German animal shelters remain under heavy strain, a spokesperson for the German Animal Protection Association, Lea Schmitz, told the “Rheinische Post”. “Many shelters are operating at the limits of their capacity”, she said.
A surge in demand around Easter puts extra pressure on the facilities. Rabbits and other small pets can be especially popular during this period, and Schmitz warned against distributing live animals as “Easter bunnies”. “Small pets are demanding and their care must be well thought out” she urged. “Acquiring an animal should not be taken lightly; it is crucial to research the animal’s needs and how to provide appropriate care beforehand”.
After the holiday period, the situation is expected to worsen, especially for rabbits and cats. “Throughout the spring we’re anticipating a dramatic rise in young kittens” Schmitz explained. Most of the kittens taken in during the so‑called “kitten swarm” come from street populations, and many of those born in the spring die in unfortunate circumstances if they are not found and brought to a shelter in time.
In light of these challenges, the German Animal Protection Association is calling for a nationwide spay‑and‑neuter requirement for free‑roaming cats living in private households.
