A Senior Inspector with the ISPCA believes there will a high number of animal welfare call-outs this year as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is now becoming apparent.
With people going back to work, they are realising that they are unable to care for their animals.
"I know already coming into 2023 it's going to be a very busy year," Alice Lacey said.
She added that the ISCPA have been finding a lot of animals in "dire situations."
Alice wants people to understand that animal welfare and cruelty will not be tolerated and will be dealt with seriously.
She was speaking after a Waterford man was sentenced to three months in jail for severe animal abuse and neglect.
She believes the sentence handed down means that future court cases relating to animal welfare will also be dealt with appropriately.
"A big part of it is educating people but also creating awareness around what can happen if you don't provide for your animals," Alice said.
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