Pets in Western Bay of Plenty are being abondoned during the lockdown thought to be linked to financial hardship.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council western zone controller Eric Newman said pets, particularly dogs, were being abandoned due to the financial strain in the upkeep of their pets.
"Please don't abandon your pets," he said.
He urged anyone struggling to support themselves and their pets to call the welfare hotline.
The service could supply pet food for those in hardship.