The charity's animal centres in England and Wales took in more than 1500 cats and dogs in December 2006, either directly from members of the public, or abandoned.

When other animals are included, the figure rises to over 2,200 – 75 animals a day.

January sees an even greater rise in the numbers, with the charity expecting to take in more than 90 cats and dogs a day – a peak matched only by the summer months. These animals are not believed to generally be unwanted Christmas presents.

Often there is 'no room at the inn' - at least another 50 unwanted dogs and cats a day have to be turned down by the charity as many of the animal centres are full to bursting

The charity is currently taking 50 calls a day about abandoned animals, many of which may be left 'home alone' while their owners are away.

Mark Evans, RSPCA Chief Veterinary Adviser, said there could be various reasons for 'peaks' of unwanted animals.

"It could be that people don't want to take their dog out for walks in the dark, or they don't want their cat with tummy trouble bothering them when the in-laws come round for Christmas.

"The rise in numbers over the summer also suggests that perhaps some people try to re-home their animals before they go on holiday."

"Whatever the reason, it's very sad. We'd obviously prefer that people brought their unwanted animals to us rather than discard them in some other way, but a pet is a responsibility for its entire life.

"If people aren't able to take on that responsibility, we'd rather they didn't take on the pet in the first place."

He added that the January rise in figures did not relate to 'Christmas present pets' being dumped.

Animal centre managers felt that they tended to see Christmas puppies from around March onwards, when the initial thrill had worn off.

Paula Baker, manager of one of the East region's main animal centres, Block Fen in Wimblington, Cambs, said the 'Christmas rush' starts in November, with her centre currently full and having to turn people away.

"We definitely find that more people want to hand over their pets at this time of year, which is a real worry."

"There's a feeling that people are clearing the decks during winter – out goes the tatty kitchen, out goes the mouldy carpet, out goes the unwanted pet.

"Out with the old, in with the new might be good in some ways, but it's not good for animals."

"It's heartbreaking that sometimes we have to turn animals down, but we'll do our best to ensure they find a home somewhere.

"But this is why it's so important that if people want a pet, they think about adopting an animal from one of our centres."

To find out more, visit the RSPCA's website here.