And families who would want to take a rescued puppy or kitten on board are also thinking hard about the costs involved.

Linda McDonnell at the Uckfield-based Sussex Horse Rescue told the Express the centre is now home to about 95 rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.

The figure has risen rapidly this year from about 70.

She said: 'People don't part willingly from their animals but we have had horse owners who have lost their jobs and cannot afford to pay for feed and stabling.

'Keeping a horse is very expensive.

'The last thing we want to see is people trying to offload older horses and ponies – they're the ones that end up at markets or on meat lorries to the Continent.'

And she believes it is kinder to put down an elderly, sick horse than dispose of it on the open market.

Over at Raystede near Ringmer, animal centre manager Jason Caulfield cites would-be pet owners who now ring up and question the cost of vets' fees, feed and keep.

He said: 'We are pleased people are responsible enough to take note of these things – it is better to be aware of them to start with.

'The only thing I would say is that it is a good time to think about a rescued animal.

'They are cheaper than buying pedigrees from a breeder, they are very grateful to be rescued and they come with all their vaccinations so that is one cost you would be spared.'

To donate or volunteer to help at either centre, ring Sussex Horse Rescue on 01825 762010, see sussexhorserescuetrust.org.uk or Raystede 01825 840252, raystede.org.uk