THE RSPCA is seeking good homes for 140 animals as part of a pet-adoption campaign.

The East Lancashire branch of the charity is looking to find new owners for 75 dogs, 33 cats, 24 rabbits, six rats, one mouse and a cockatiel as part of RSPCA Week, running from Monday to May 5.

"There are many distressing stories behind the arrival of animals to RSPCA branch care," said Kay Brandist, North West regional manager for the RSPCA.

"While some will have been brought to us for genuine reasons, such as the death of a previous owner, there are too many that have been callously abandoned or cruelly treated

"They have the right to live with an owner who has both the time and commitment to take care of them.

"I know there are many people who could offer just that to one of the 1,000 animals in our care and I would urge those people to get in touch with their local branch. However, we do ask people to think carefully before adopting a pet.

"Some of the animals looking for new homes are being cared for by the RSPCA because previous owners no longer wanted them. Owning an animal requires significant commitment and is an added expense."

If you are interested in adopting a pet during RSPCA week, contact the East Lancashire branch at Altham for details on 01254 231118.

The RSPCA has a home-assessment policy to decide the suitability of would-be owners.