It's not just humans who are finding life tough financially at the moment.
The cost of keeping pets is increasing and one animal charity is particularly feeling the pinch.
The Isle of Wight’s RSPCA branch has launched a Christmas charity appeal to help it meet the cost of keeping animals warm and cosy this winter.
In common with other businesses, homes and charities, the branch is also experiencing spiralling fuel costs.
The charity, which receives no regular funding from the national RSPCA, estimates the energy bill for its animal rescue centre at Godshill could this year top £40,000 — with further rises on the way.
That will more than double the cost of heating and lighting the centre and its charity shops.
Read more: When the Island's RSPCA saved badger stuck in swimming pool
A contribution to support these rising costs will help the centre care for animals in need.
Alternatively, the branch is accepting donations of blankets or bedding which can be used to keep animals in its care, snug this winter.
The ‘face’ of this year’s appeal is rescue dog Oakley a five-year-old male Samoyed who, due to his poor condition on arrival, had to have 2.2kg of fur and debris clipped away.
Although Samoyeds are known for their thick and beautiful double-layer coat which acts naturally as a dirt repellent as well as providing insulation, in Oakley’s case he needs extra support to keep him warm this winter due to bare skin exposure as a result of the required veterinary care, regular bathing and grooming needed to treat his coat.
Branch manager Suzanne Pugh said: “We know how much people are struggling with the cost of living crisis yet we know also how our wonderful community has, repeatedly, come forward to support their Island animal shelter.
“Our duty of care is to keep animals such as Oakley warm and comfortable and, as everyone will appreciate, the cost of doing that has risen sharply.
“We rely entirely on generous donations and fundraising activities of the community to keep going and the cost of providing our many and varied animal welfare services has simply never been higher.
“I thank everyone for their kindness at this time of year and on behalf of the animals, our volunteers and our staff I can assure you we appreciate your generosity.”
Gift donations can be made HERE
Anyone able to donate blankets can drop them into the island animal centre near Godshill (PO38 3NA) between 10am and 4pm, seven days a week.
Another way people can help is to buy the branch’s own bespoke Let’s Keep Our Animals Warm Christmas cards this year.
A pack of two is available for £3 at the RSPCA shops in Newport, Sandown and Ventnor as well as at the RSPCA animal welfare centre in Godshill.
House Rules
We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.
Read the rules here