The RSPCA World Cup netting warning is aimed at garden owners who leave football goal equipment out after use. The charity reissued its plea after a deer in Grundisburgh, Suffolk, and a young fox in north London were found trapped and needed rescue.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officers Joanna Thorpe and Emma Baker went to the garden in Grundisburgh and cut the deer free after it had become tangled around its neck, head and legs. Thorpe said: “It’s fortunate that the poor deer was spotted when he was. The netting had become wrapped around multiple parts of his body and he was clearly distressed.”
Joanna Thorpe in Grundisburgh
Thorpe also said the deer had bleeding around his head and antler buds. After assessing his condition, the officers released him back into the wild. She added: “Wild animals can quickly panic when they become trapped, which can lead to serious injuries as they struggle to escape. In some cases, animals can suffer fatal injuries or die from stress after becoming entangled.”
The charity said the warning is being repeated during the World Cup period because football nets are being left unattended in gardens. The RSPCA also said the appeal links with its Summer of Kindness campaign. It is urging homeowners to carry out one final check before turning in for the night and to store goal netting securely after each use.
Nicola Thomas in north London
In north London, RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Nicola Thomas attended a school on June 15 after a young fox was found tightly entangled in football goal netting. Thomas freed the fox and said: “This young fox was very lucky to be found when he was, and we are so grateful to the staff member who alerted us. The netting had become tightly wrapped around his neck, and it was clear he needed veterinary attention after being freed.”
The fox was taken to Essex Wildlife Hospital for assessment and treatment, then released back into the wild a few days later. Thomas said: “Young foxes are naturally curious and spend much of their time exploring. Sadly, that means that when hazards such as loose netting are left out, they can be put in danger.” She added: “Thankfully, this fox has made a full recovery and has been able to return to the wild where he belongs. But incidents like this are completely avoidable and we are urging anyone using football goals this summer to take a few moments to put nets and equipment away after use - it could save an animal’s life.”
The RSPCA says similar rescues have already happened since the World Cup started, and that is why the warning is being repeated now. For households using football goals in gardens, the practical step is simple: put the nets and equipment away after each use.
