According to the BBC, an estimated 2% to 5% of the UK population are affected by a hoarding disorder. This means that more than 1.2 million people may be living with the condition. Hoarded homes often involve keeping large numbers of possessions that feel impossible to discard. For some, this can include animals. Individuals may keep a pet in a hoarder house which can potentially compromise both the animal’s welfare and the person’s living condition. In more severe situations, owning an excessive number of pets may lead to animal hoarding, creating unsafe and unsanitary conditions for both the animals and their owner.
Why Hoarded Homes Are Harmful For Pets
There are several reasons why hoarded environments can be harmful for pets, including:
- Unsanitary conditions: Hoarded homes often create unsanitary conditions with accumulation of waste and clutter. Animals can be exposed to infestations, diseases and toxic substances.
- Restricted movement: Pets may be confined or overcrowded in restricted areas due to unstable debris or blocked pathways, creating risks of injury or entrapment.
- Lack of food and water: Lack of food and clean water can result in starvation or dehydration. With several pets there can be competition for limited resources which can lead to aggressive behaviour.
- Medical neglect: Hoarded animals can suffer injuries from accidents in the cluttered environments or fights with other animals. If left untreated this can lead to infections and chronic illness.
- Psychological harm: The overcrowded environment can cause stress, fear or aggression in the animals.
UK Legislation
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 is a key piece of legislation governing animals’ welfare in the UK. Under the act, owners have a duty of care to ensure their animals welfare needs are met. The needs that must be met include:
- A suitable environment.
- A suitable diet.
- To be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns.
- any need to be housed with, or apart from, other animals.
- Protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
Local authorities or the RSPCA can intervene if animals are found living in hoarded homes that compromise their welfare. Even if the owner does not intend harm, this can still be prosecuted as cruelty.
Probate Property Services Case
We frequently encounter probate properties affected by hoarding. In one tragic case, a hoarder’s home filled with BT equipment revealed a mummified cat hidden beneath a stack of paperwork. The animal seemed to have become trapped, most likely after paperwork fell on top of it. This raised the question about whether the owner noticed their pet had gone missing or if they were even aware they had a cat.
Sadly, situations like this are not uncommon in hoarded homes. This was not the only instance in which we have found an animal that had perished within a property.
Final Thoughts
When animals are involved in hoarded homes the consequences can be devastating. Pets rely entirely on their owners for safety, nourishment, and care. In hoarded environments, these basic needs are compromised.
Probate Property Service have dealt with numerous probate properties in every condition. We clear all the clutter and waste from the interior and exterior of the property, leaving it completely empty. We also provide a thorough deep clean, ensuring the home is prepared for sale. If you need help with a hoarded home, please contact us.
