0:00:03 > 0:00:05Britain's animals are under threat.
0:00:05 > 0:00:08All too often, our wildlife and domestic pets
0:00:08 > 0:00:12are the victims of cruelty, persecution and neglect.
0:00:12 > 0:00:15Fighting to save them is a dedicated band of people
0:00:15 > 0:00:18trying to protect and care for them right around the clock.
0:00:18 > 0:00:21This is Animal 24:7.
0:00:42 > 0:00:44Today on Animal 24:7...
0:00:44 > 0:00:46Let's have a look at them, then.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49The owner whose love of pets is out of control.
0:00:49 > 0:00:54You have too many animals here. You've got at least one of everything!
0:00:54 > 0:00:56Under lock and key -
0:00:56 > 0:00:59the evidence of an international crime.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03This is what it's all about. Lots and lots and lots of eggs.
0:01:03 > 0:01:05And Jasmine the pregnant puss
0:01:05 > 0:01:07gets her first scan.
0:01:07 > 0:01:09There's definitely some babies in there.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12That row of dots is a kitten's backbone.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14See that little heart beating?
0:01:19 > 0:01:22Collecting things for a hobby is harmless enough.
0:01:22 > 0:01:25But for some people, the compulsion to collect animals
0:01:25 > 0:01:27can have dire consequences.
0:01:27 > 0:01:30These so-called animal hoarders are rarely cruel,
0:01:30 > 0:01:35just unable to cope with the demands of keeping so many pets.
0:01:35 > 0:01:41RSPCA inspector Selina Chan is on her way to the latest case.
0:01:48 > 0:01:52This small terraced house in South Wales is home to a pet owner
0:01:52 > 0:01:53who simply loves animals.
0:01:55 > 0:02:00She's already been visited by the RSPCA about her collection of cats.
0:02:03 > 0:02:05Now there's a fresh complaint.
0:02:06 > 0:02:11When I get calls to this house, I feel like I'm fighting a losing battle.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15She has this hoarding tendency about her
0:02:15 > 0:02:19and I know there's always going to be more here when I get the call.
0:02:20 > 0:02:25The report suggests there might be dogs living in poor conditions.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30But Selina suspects this could just be the start of the story.
0:02:32 > 0:02:34Hello. Selina of the RSPCA.
0:02:34 > 0:02:36I've had another call about the dogs.
0:02:36 > 0:02:39- Is it all right to have a look?- Yes.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43Selina's first job is to check outside.
0:02:43 > 0:02:45Let's have a look at them, then.
0:02:45 > 0:02:48The owner takes her to the back yard where the dogs are living.
0:02:49 > 0:02:51Come on, you.
0:02:51 > 0:02:53Come on!
0:02:54 > 0:02:57- How many dogs have you got altogether?- Only those.
0:02:57 > 0:03:00I had a call saying there's five dogs here.
0:03:00 > 0:03:04- Five?- You haven't got five? Right, OK, that's good.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07Selina is told there are just two dogs living here.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09Come on, sweetie.
0:03:09 > 0:03:12Snowy and an energetic terrier called Shiloh.
0:03:12 > 0:03:14Hello, you.
0:03:14 > 0:03:17Finding two rather than five is a welcome development,
0:03:17 > 0:03:19but the good news is short-lived.
0:03:21 > 0:03:24There's a lot of cleaning here to be done.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- The place is covered in faeces. - I know.
0:03:26 > 0:03:29You could do with having a clean-up in here as well.
0:03:29 > 0:03:34There's a lot of faeces on the floor. Maybe take that carpet and replace it, OK?
0:03:34 > 0:03:36Pop the dogs back, then.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40And then we'll have a look at the rest of the animals you've got
0:03:40 > 0:03:42so I can make a note of what you've got.
0:03:43 > 0:03:47The first stage of Selina's visit has not gone well.
0:03:50 > 0:03:55Next, Selina moves to the front garden, home to two rabbits and one ferret.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58It's filthy inside.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00Right?
0:04:00 > 0:04:03Like the back yard, the conditions are not good.
0:04:04 > 0:04:09You can see rotting food. I see you've filled the water up.
0:04:09 > 0:04:11Are you coping, keeping this ferret?
0:04:11 > 0:04:14I want to find a home for him.
0:04:14 > 0:04:15Right, OK.
0:04:15 > 0:04:17We can look to do that today for you.
0:04:17 > 0:04:20With one pet signed over,
0:04:20 > 0:04:21Selina moves on to the rabbits.
0:04:21 > 0:04:25Again, it's absolutely filthy.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28Can we pop this door open so I can see the bedding area?
0:04:28 > 0:04:31- That is disgusting.- OK.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35Evidence is mounting that this owner is struggling to cope.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38I'm not really happy for these rabbits to stay here
0:04:38 > 0:04:40because of the condition in the hutch.
0:04:40 > 0:04:42Do you want me to help you re-home them?
0:04:45 > 0:04:48I'll take those today because I don't want them staying in here.
0:04:48 > 0:04:53Three pets have been signed over. Now it's time to see what's inside.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56So what have we got in the house?
0:04:56 > 0:04:59Selina isn't prepared for what's waiting in the living room.
0:05:02 > 0:05:03OK.
0:05:05 > 0:05:07This is a Chinese water dragon.
0:05:07 > 0:05:10Like all reptiles, they need specialist care.
0:05:10 > 0:05:14- Have you ever had a reptile before? - No.- Okey-dokes.
0:05:14 > 0:05:18The way this one's being kept is simply not good enough.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21I'm really not happy with this staying here.
0:05:21 > 0:05:26You've got completely the wrong set-up for that type of animal.
0:05:26 > 0:05:30He looks in good condition. I'm not concerned about how he looks at all.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33But your environment is not correct.
0:05:33 > 0:05:36Would you be happy for me to take this?
0:05:36 > 0:05:39If you want to be looking at keeping reptiles and things...
0:05:41 > 0:05:45Right. Things have to drastically improve with this, OK?
0:05:45 > 0:05:49The owner is reluctant to sign the water dragon over.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53So Selina gives her a chance to show she can improve things.
0:05:53 > 0:05:55You need a filtered water pool.
0:05:55 > 0:06:00You'll never get a filtered water pool in there because it's too small, OK?
0:06:00 > 0:06:02Plus, the thing is, your house is boiling hot.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06And you've got a basking light and a heat mat in there.
0:06:06 > 0:06:08I bet it's baking in there.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11You need to get a new viv by next week.
0:06:11 > 0:06:14With all animals accounted for downstairs,
0:06:14 > 0:06:17Selina now heads upstairs.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19Okey-dokes.
0:06:20 > 0:06:23The first room she comes to is the bathroom.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26So we've got a grey female and five kittens.
0:06:28 > 0:06:30- How old are the kittens? - About four weeks.
0:06:30 > 0:06:32About four weeks.
0:06:33 > 0:06:35The new family is healthy,
0:06:35 > 0:06:38but they shouldn't be living in a basket in a bathroom.
0:06:38 > 0:06:41I see you're putting food and water down for them.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43But you're failing on keeping the place clean.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47You need to be on top of this, OK?
0:06:47 > 0:06:50I recommend getting a bigger litter tray for mum.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56The owner promises the kittens will be going to new homes
0:06:56 > 0:06:57once they're big enough
0:06:57 > 0:06:59and she wants mum to go, too.
0:06:59 > 0:07:04We need to focus on getting her neutered as soon as these kittens come off.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07When they're old enough to go, I want to do re-homing anyway.
0:07:07 > 0:07:11Right. OK. Why do you want to re-home her once those kittens are gone?
0:07:16 > 0:07:17Not coping?
0:07:20 > 0:07:23We can help you with that once the kittens go.
0:07:25 > 0:07:29There's no doubt that this owner loves animals.
0:07:29 > 0:07:35But her desire to collect pets has gone beyond ornaments and photos.
0:07:36 > 0:07:40Now she's slowly realising that her collecting has gone too far.
0:07:41 > 0:07:43Can you smell it in here?
0:07:43 > 0:07:45There are more animals across the landing.
0:07:45 > 0:07:48You've got way too many cats.
0:07:48 > 0:07:51You're talking five cats in this room.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55Conditions in here are possibly the worst of all.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57You're not on top of the cleaning.
0:07:57 > 0:08:01I see you're putting food and water down and the cats are in good nick.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04I'm not concerned that you're not caring for them in that way,
0:08:04 > 0:08:07but you are so not on top of the cleaning.
0:08:07 > 0:08:12It stinks in here. I'm surprised you bother coming in here, it's that smelly.
0:08:13 > 0:08:16The owner is told this room must be cleaned
0:08:16 > 0:08:19and Selina persuades her to sign one of the cats over.
0:08:19 > 0:08:24I'd like to get the number of cats you have right down, to be honest.
0:08:24 > 0:08:27You have way too many for this house.
0:08:27 > 0:08:30You cannot be keeping five cats in this room.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35After double-checking there are no more animals anywhere...
0:08:35 > 0:08:39- Any in this room?- No. - Nothing in there or there. OK.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42..the conversation moves downstairs.
0:08:42 > 0:08:46- If you wanted to re-home her, then...- I want to re-home this one.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49A total of four animals have been signed over today.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52But just as Selina is about to leave...
0:08:52 > 0:08:54Have you got a bird?
0:08:54 > 0:08:57..she hears a suspicious noise coming from a bedroom,
0:08:57 > 0:09:00the room she was told was empty.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02You said there's wasn't anything in here.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07It seems this collection could yet grow further.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09You've just got too much.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22Coming up:
0:09:22 > 0:09:26I would suggest you get rid of the small animals at least. All right?
0:09:26 > 0:09:29The birds have to go by the weekend as well.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32And the casualties of an illegal trade.
0:09:32 > 0:09:37- Each one of these eggs represents a bird that isn't.- Exactly right.
0:09:37 > 0:09:41Somebody's literally taken a living egg, drilled a hole in it,
0:09:41 > 0:09:43and flushed the bird down the sink.
0:09:46 > 0:09:51It's estimated that it can cost up to £10,000 a year to keep a pet.
0:09:51 > 0:09:55Undoubtedly, the biggest expense is vet fees.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58Fortunately for owners on low incomes
0:09:58 > 0:10:01there are charity-funded animal hospitals up and down the country.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05They make sure that pets can get the care they need.
0:10:10 > 0:10:12Victoria, London.
0:10:12 > 0:10:16This is the oldest animal hospital in the UK.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19It's run by The Blue Cross.
0:10:21 > 0:10:24From routine treatment to life-saving surgery,
0:10:24 > 0:10:28a skilled team of vets and nurses work round the clock.
0:10:30 > 0:10:34On average, 100 pets are brought in every day by worried owners.
0:10:37 > 0:10:39One of today's patients is Otis,
0:10:39 > 0:10:43a nine-year-old cat who's not been eating.
0:10:43 > 0:10:44Yep, he's off his food.
0:10:45 > 0:10:49He's losing weight fast, so vet Nigel Smith begins an examination.
0:10:49 > 0:10:54This puss has been generally off colour.
0:10:54 > 0:10:55He's just not right.
0:10:55 > 0:10:59Probably sleeping a bit more than usual.
0:10:59 > 0:11:05One thing that has been a consistent feature is that he's abnormally yellow.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07That's jaundice.
0:11:08 > 0:11:09OK, guy. Let's see.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14His lips are a bit yellow as well.
0:11:15 > 0:11:18Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin,
0:11:18 > 0:11:21usually associated with liver disorder.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Nigel fears Otis may have cancer.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32He's immediately anaesthetised so urgent tests can be carried out.
0:11:33 > 0:11:37He's immensely poorly. His liver function is very, very poor.
0:11:38 > 0:11:42He's facing a pretty unclear future at the moment.
0:11:44 > 0:11:46First the team takes x-rays.
0:11:46 > 0:11:50The results will show if Otis has any hope of making a recovery.
0:11:53 > 0:11:56We want to make sure that his chest is OK,
0:11:56 > 0:12:00make sure there's no evidence of cancer in the lung tissue.
0:12:00 > 0:12:04Because that may well alter what we do.
0:12:04 > 0:12:08We might have to think again as to what our treatment options are,
0:12:08 > 0:12:12what's realistic and what's fair to put him through.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14If Otis has cancer of the liver,
0:12:14 > 0:12:17there's a real danger it's spread to the chest.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23Nigel checks the results.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26Good news. No obvious signs of cancer in the chest.
0:12:26 > 0:12:32That's good. So whatever is going on in the abdomen, or in the liver,
0:12:32 > 0:12:35then we can assume that it's restricted to the liver.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41So far, so good.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44The x-rays might be positive,
0:12:44 > 0:12:49but the team's still no closer to finding out what is wrong with Otis.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52It's time for him to go under the knife.
0:12:54 > 0:12:58Right. We have a very swollen liver.
0:13:00 > 0:13:04The team can now have a close look at all of his vital organs.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08And the seriousness of his condition becomes clear.
0:13:08 > 0:13:13- This is its stomach.- Look at that stomach! It's so yellow.
0:13:13 > 0:13:18Surgeon Charlotte Hamilton is alarmed by these jaundice levels
0:13:18 > 0:13:21and she knows diagnosis isn't straightforward.
0:13:24 > 0:13:28There's no obvious large cancer lesion that we were concerned about.
0:13:28 > 0:13:32But the other thing we're worried about is there might be a blockage
0:13:32 > 0:13:37so we're trying to flush the liver through, through the gall bladder
0:13:37 > 0:13:40to see if we can find any blockage there.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43This is a delicate operation.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45The team is in for a long afternoon.
0:13:47 > 0:13:51It's complicated because it's an elderly cat.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54There are multiple things that could be going on.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56Sometimes, things aren't always as they seem
0:13:56 > 0:13:59so when you have a look at her insides,
0:13:59 > 0:14:06it's not obvious what's going on. It'll be touch and go over the next 24 hours, basically.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16The Blue Cross has four animal hospitals around the UK.
0:14:21 > 0:14:24In Grimsby, Jenna Robinson has brought in Jasmine,
0:14:24 > 0:14:27a cat she inherited from her aunt, who died recently.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32I didn't know much about cats. Didn't even have a cat.
0:14:32 > 0:14:36Then I got told I needed to keep her. I've brought her in for a check-up.
0:14:36 > 0:14:42And it seems this not-so-welcome inheritance is even more than Jenna bargained for.
0:14:42 > 0:14:44She suspects Jasmine is pregnant.
0:14:44 > 0:14:46Hello. Jasmine Robinson?
0:14:46 > 0:14:52Accompanied by her son, Jenna takes Jasmine to see vet Wendy Adams.
0:14:52 > 0:14:56Right. This is Jasmine. How long have you had Jasmine?
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- About four weeks.- Four weeks. Right.
0:14:59 > 0:15:05In those four weeks, Jasmine's rapidly changing body shape has aroused Jenna's suspicions.
0:15:05 > 0:15:07Ooh, yes.
0:15:07 > 0:15:12That's quite a large tummy you've got there, isn't it?
0:15:12 > 0:15:15Good girl. You're very pretty, aren't you?
0:15:15 > 0:15:18There's definitely some babies in there.
0:15:18 > 0:15:21I can't tell how many this way,
0:15:21 > 0:15:26so in a minute we'll scan her and see if we can see some kittens.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29It's a big moment for all mums-to-be,
0:15:29 > 0:15:31that first ultrasound scan.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35But it won't work through fur.
0:15:36 > 0:15:39So we'll just do a little shave on her tummy.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43I'm just going to pop the light out.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51Put that on her tummy and see what we can see.
0:15:51 > 0:15:56All eyes are turned to the monitor, to see their first sign of life.
0:15:56 > 0:16:00- You can see a spine.- You can see a little spine. See that?
0:16:00 > 0:16:03That row of dots is a kitten's backbone.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05See the little heart beating?
0:16:07 > 0:16:09Just fluttering, isn't it?
0:16:10 > 0:16:13Wendy can see one healthy kitten.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16There's another little spine at the top there.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20Be a good girl.
0:16:20 > 0:16:24I'll just pop the lights back on so we can see what we're doing.
0:16:24 > 0:16:28And it seems this kitten is going to be arriving much sooner than Jenna thought.
0:16:28 > 0:16:31I would think she's got less than two weeks to go.
0:16:36 > 0:16:39Just a few weeks ago,
0:16:39 > 0:16:41Jenna had no desire to own any cats.
0:16:41 > 0:16:44Inheriting Jasmine was one thing.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48Now she has just a couple of weeks to prepare for another new arrival.
0:16:55 > 0:16:57Later...
0:16:57 > 0:16:59It's a lovely smile, isn't it?
0:16:59 > 0:17:02..we find out what's troubling Mucker.
0:17:02 > 0:17:04He's a lumpy old boy.
0:17:04 > 0:17:06But that's not a fatty lump.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10So unfortunately I think it's a bit more serious.
0:17:10 > 0:17:14And the nervous terrier taken from a hoarder's home.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18Shallow's a bit hesitant because I don't think he's ever been on a lead.
0:17:18 > 0:17:20He's not sure what he's meant to be doing!
0:17:20 > 0:17:24I'm sure if I took the lead off him, he'd walk around fine.
0:17:30 > 0:17:35This street in Low Willington near Crook in County Durham,
0:17:35 > 0:17:40looks like many others across our county towns.
0:17:40 > 0:17:45But when the police raided a house here in February 2009,
0:17:45 > 0:17:49they found one of the most unusual and varied egg collections
0:17:49 > 0:17:52they'd ever seized in Britain.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56This is Andrew Seed,
0:17:56 > 0:18:00the man who held a hoard of eggs from some of the world's rarest birds.
0:18:02 > 0:18:04At Durham crown court,
0:18:04 > 0:18:07he pleaded guilty to 17 offences
0:18:07 > 0:18:10relating to smuggling, trading, and keeping of birds' eggs.
0:18:15 > 0:18:18The charges related to this collection,
0:18:18 > 0:18:21filmed at his house during a police raid.
0:18:24 > 0:18:27There were thousands of eggs stored in cabinets and drawers,
0:18:27 > 0:18:30and evidence of illegal trading.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36RSPB investigator Guy Shorrock is one of the officers
0:18:36 > 0:18:38who brought Seed to book.
0:18:38 > 0:18:42It was February last year when I first came down here.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44I wasn't sure what to expect, really.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47'He's now brought me to the local police station
0:18:47 > 0:18:50'where the evidence is still under lock and key.'
0:18:50 > 0:18:53This is where they're still stored, is it?
0:18:53 > 0:18:55This is how it was when I found it.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57There's a lot of furniture in here.
0:18:57 > 0:19:02I have a feeling I know what'll be in these drawers if I open it.
0:19:02 > 0:19:03Absolutely.
0:19:03 > 0:19:04Wow.
0:19:04 > 0:19:08This is what it's all about, as far as Mr Seed is concerned.
0:19:08 > 0:19:09Lots and lots and lots of eggs.
0:19:09 > 0:19:14- And all these as well? - There's over 2,000 here in total.
0:19:14 > 0:19:17It was amazing. He was part of an international egg-smuggling ring
0:19:17 > 0:19:20with people in the States and Australia and all over.
0:19:20 > 0:19:24There were eggs in little boxes being moved across the planet.
0:19:26 > 0:19:28Trading and collecting birds' eggs
0:19:28 > 0:19:33has been illegal since the introduction of the Wildlife and Countryside Act in 1981.
0:19:33 > 0:19:39Before then, the robbing of eggs from nests had led to some species vanishing altogether.
0:19:39 > 0:19:42These are the eggs of a species called Red-backed Shrike.
0:19:42 > 0:19:46This species is now extinct as a breeding species in this country.
0:19:46 > 0:19:49During the 1960s and '70s and early '80s
0:19:49 > 0:19:52it was harried mercilessly by egg collectors.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55- Wow.- It's just one of the eggs they hold in high regard.
0:19:55 > 0:19:58- It's well-marked with a pink flush on it.- Amazing.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01Can we have a look in more detail at what's in there?
0:20:01 > 0:20:07'The scale of Seed's collection is staggering. Trays and trays containing thousands of eggs...'
0:20:07 > 0:20:10This is an extraordinary collection!
0:20:11 > 0:20:13'..taken from nests all over the world.'
0:20:15 > 0:20:172,500 eggs.
0:20:17 > 0:20:21That's a lot in anyone's book, but a large number of species, too?
0:20:21 > 0:20:24Yes, it's particularly unusual, this collection.
0:20:24 > 0:20:26Most collections I deal with are British or European eggs.
0:20:26 > 0:20:31But it became apparent there's a smattering of eggs from every continent.
0:20:31 > 0:20:32Let's look at the ones in here.
0:20:32 > 0:20:37Even I can read this one. It says "vulture".
0:20:37 > 0:20:42These are Egyptian vultures. It's a heavily declining species in Europe.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Closer to home, the Golden Eagle,
0:20:48 > 0:20:52perhaps the most majestic bird still alive in the British Isles.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55- These are Golden Eagle eggs? - Very popular with egg collectors.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59And the terribly sad thing is,
0:20:59 > 0:21:04we know Golden Eagles how grand they are, what fantastic birds.
0:21:04 > 0:21:07Each one of these eggs represents a bird that isn't.
0:21:07 > 0:21:08Exactly right.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12Somebody's taken a living egg, drilled a hole in it,
0:21:12 > 0:21:15and flushed the life of that bird down the sink.
0:21:16 > 0:21:21Included in the evidence seized were tools designed to destroy the life inside an egg.
0:21:23 > 0:21:26- So those drill down into the egg itself?- That's right, yes.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28'The paraphernalia of egg-blowing.'
0:21:28 > 0:21:31Once you've got the hole in the egg,
0:21:31 > 0:21:36what they will do is use pipettes, these things here. And often syringes
0:21:36 > 0:21:39to force air into the shell
0:21:39 > 0:21:42and flush out the yolk back through the same hole.
0:21:42 > 0:21:45Then they swill it out with water to clean it out.
0:21:48 > 0:21:51This collection didn't come cheap.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54Some of the clutches are reported to have cost up to £6,000.
0:21:58 > 0:22:02The rarest and most endangered species like these
0:22:02 > 0:22:06of the roseate tern fetching the highest prices.
0:22:07 > 0:22:11Sadly, you deal with a lot of egg collectors, egg thieves, in your work.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15How does this case compare with the run of cases?
0:22:15 > 0:22:19What's interesting is the diversity of eggs in here. It's amazing.
0:22:19 > 0:22:24Eggs from the States, from America, eggs from captive birds, from wild birds.
0:22:24 > 0:22:28It was clear that he was completely obsessed with trying to build up
0:22:28 > 0:22:30the most diverse collection possible.
0:22:30 > 0:22:34He wanted as many different species from all over the world.
0:22:34 > 0:22:38It's really an obsessional behaviour. It's trophy hunting.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41For the egg thief, it's about the thrill of the chase,
0:22:41 > 0:22:43going to the countryside,
0:22:43 > 0:22:47finding the eggs of rare birds or finding eggs that are difficult to find.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49Getting them home without being caught.
0:22:49 > 0:22:54Mr Seed was different. All he was interested in was building this diverse collection.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57No regard about where the eggs had come from,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59who'd taken them, how rare they were.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02All he wanted was this big collection.
0:23:05 > 0:23:09The RSPB was alerted to the collection after a tip-off
0:23:09 > 0:23:12about as series of suspicious emails.
0:23:13 > 0:23:16In May 2010,
0:23:16 > 0:23:19Andrew Seed received a nine-month jail sentence,
0:23:19 > 0:23:20suspended for two years.
0:23:20 > 0:23:25He was also ordered to pay over £3,500 in costs.
0:23:29 > 0:23:33The RSPB is still considering what to do with the eggs.
0:23:41 > 0:23:43Coming up...
0:23:44 > 0:23:46A new baby for Jasmine.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49Just started to open her eyes, just trying to walk.
0:23:49 > 0:23:53Still a bit wobbly. But she's lovely.
0:23:53 > 0:23:55A big ball of fluff.
0:23:59 > 0:24:03There is no limit to the number of pets someone can have.
0:24:03 > 0:24:05What matters is how they're looked after.
0:24:05 > 0:24:10In South Wales, RSPCA inspector Selina Chan is with someone
0:24:10 > 0:24:13whose love of animals is out of control.
0:24:13 > 0:24:19So far, she's found two dogs, ten cats, two rabbits, a ferret and a water dragon
0:24:19 > 0:24:22and now it looks as though there could be even more.
0:24:30 > 0:24:34Selina thought she'd found all the animals in this house but she was wrong.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37Did I hear a bird? Where's the bird?
0:24:37 > 0:24:41She's just heard the sound of birds coming from inside this bedroom.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44You told me there wasn't anything in here.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48And sure enough, her suspicions are right.
0:24:49 > 0:24:52And hamsters. Right. OK.
0:24:52 > 0:24:56This small, dark bedroom is home to two cockatiels, two mice
0:24:56 > 0:24:58and a hamster.
0:24:58 > 0:25:00You've just got too much.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04The number of animals kept in this small house has grown from 16 to 21.
0:25:07 > 0:25:11Can you open that curtain cos it's awful dark and birds love the light.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14The homeowner says the birds belong to a friend
0:25:14 > 0:25:18and they'll be gone by the weekend.
0:25:18 > 0:25:21Clean it out by the weekend when I come back.
0:25:21 > 0:25:25They've got plenty of perches. They're both ringed.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27What else have we got?
0:25:27 > 0:25:31Selina turns her attention to the mice and hamster.
0:25:31 > 0:25:34How often are you cleaning the cages out?
0:25:34 > 0:25:37That doesn't look like once or twice a week.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39You need to keep on top of that, all right?
0:25:39 > 0:25:43You need to open the window so you've got some ventilation.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46It's not fair that they're being stuck in here.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49I don't need to tell you you need to clean the cage out.
0:25:51 > 0:25:57Yet again, it's clear this owner is struggling to keep up with the demands of so many pets.
0:25:57 > 0:26:02You have too many animals here. You've got at least one of everything.
0:26:02 > 0:26:06If you're not spending time with these, what's the point in them being here?
0:26:06 > 0:26:12Plus it's costing you more money. I suggest you get rid of the small animals at least.
0:26:12 > 0:26:15Clean the birds out. They have to go by the weekend.
0:26:17 > 0:26:22Although the animals are healthy, they just can't live like this.
0:26:22 > 0:26:24OK?
0:26:25 > 0:26:30Selina is determined to work with the owner to reduce her numbers.
0:26:30 > 0:26:31But it's going to take time.
0:26:33 > 0:26:35Brilliant. That's your copy.
0:26:35 > 0:26:38Can you help me get the rabbits and the ferret out?
0:26:38 > 0:26:41I'll bring a cage in for the cat as well.
0:26:46 > 0:26:50This owner has not purposefully neglected her pets.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53But her love of animals is out of control.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57I'll run these over to the van, then we'll sort the rabbits out.
0:26:57 > 0:27:02Today, she agrees to give up four of her 21 animals.
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Put that one in.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07Two rabbits, a cat and a ferret.
0:27:13 > 0:27:16That would be great if I can have that. Brilliant.
0:27:19 > 0:27:22The number of pets living here is now down to 17.
0:27:22 > 0:27:25Selina's hoping this will just be the start of things.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29I think she will do what I've asked.
0:27:29 > 0:27:34When I went back in the second time, she'd cleaned the litter trays out.
0:27:34 > 0:27:36She's taking the advice on board.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38I think it'll be a long process.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41It won't be a quick fix.
0:27:41 > 0:27:46I'll keep an eye on her in the next couple of weeks and hopefully she'll do all I asked.
0:27:51 > 0:27:55This is the RSPCA centre in Merthyr Tydfil.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01Here the animals can now enjoy clean and comfortable beds.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04I don't suspect there'll be anything wrong with them.
0:28:04 > 0:28:08We'll board them here overnight and get a health check in the morning.
0:28:08 > 0:28:12We'll put them up for re-homing if they get a full bill of health.
0:28:13 > 0:28:17Animal hoarding is a common problem for the RSPCA.
0:28:17 > 0:28:18Hey, you.
0:28:18 > 0:28:24It's something Selina comes into contact with on an all-too-regular basis.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26What makes a hoarder a hoarder?
0:28:26 > 0:28:29Just not knowing when to stop.
0:28:29 > 0:28:33Thinking they're doing the right thing by helping the animals.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36Unfortunately, because the numbers increase,
0:28:36 > 0:28:42they find themselves in a bit of trouble where they can't actually keep up
0:28:42 > 0:28:45with the number of animals they've got.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48Most hoarders don't see a problem with the animals they've got,
0:28:48 > 0:28:52don't see a problem with the conditions they're kept in,
0:28:52 > 0:28:58so at least the owner of these animals realises she has too many
0:28:58 > 0:29:02and is being co-operative and handing them over for re-homing.
0:29:02 > 0:29:06It has been a successful day for Selina.
0:29:06 > 0:29:11But she has no idea how many more animals the owner will eventually let go.
0:29:17 > 0:29:19Still to come:
0:29:19 > 0:29:23The lady explained to me she didn't want the larger terrier.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26This is quite common, especially with people who do hoard animals.
0:29:26 > 0:29:29The novelty wears off quite quickly.
0:29:32 > 0:29:37Now we return to the dedicated team at the Blue Cross Hospitals.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41Earlier, we saw staff operate on a cat with jaundice
0:29:41 > 0:29:43and perform ultrasound on a pregnant tabby.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46In a moment, we'll catch up on both of those.
0:29:46 > 0:29:50But first, another patient has just walked through the door.
0:29:56 > 0:29:58The Blue Cross provides an ambulance service
0:29:58 > 0:30:02for pets whose owners are unable to bring them in for treatment.
0:30:02 > 0:30:07Mucker the bulldog is the latest to arrive at the London Victoria Hospital.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10- How's Mucker?- He's with the ambulance driver, John Webb.
0:30:10 > 0:30:14His left, hind leg. I'll attempt to get him on the table!
0:30:14 > 0:30:17I can see why... Are you all right?
0:30:17 > 0:30:19Poor old Mucker!
0:30:19 > 0:30:21Hey, mate, how are you?
0:30:21 > 0:30:24It's a lovely smile, isn't it?
0:30:24 > 0:30:27Mucker's appointment is with vet Kathy Taylor.
0:30:27 > 0:30:32The main concern the owner has is that Mucker's left hind leg, there's a lump on the joint.
0:30:32 > 0:30:35- Yes.- He's walking badly.
0:30:35 > 0:30:38His owners are worried that the lump on his leg is cancerous.
0:30:38 > 0:30:43Mucker's quite an elderly English bulldog.
0:30:43 > 0:30:46As he's aged, he's been becoming a bit more arthritic
0:30:46 > 0:30:54because he has these very prominent elbows and the real bulldog English stance.
0:30:54 > 0:30:57Churchill would be proud of him!
0:30:57 > 0:31:01But this lump on the leg - here, Mucker, turn around, mate.
0:31:01 > 0:31:06- Good boy. He's a lumpy old boy, but that's not a fatty lump.- No.
0:31:06 > 0:31:10Unfortunately I think it's probably a bit more serious.
0:31:10 > 0:31:14But I'm hoping very much that it's not cancer.
0:31:16 > 0:31:20Because of his age, if Mucker does have cancer treatment,
0:31:20 > 0:31:22it will be especially difficult.
0:31:22 > 0:31:26It is, obviously, a very serious thing.
0:31:26 > 0:31:27In a younger dog,
0:31:27 > 0:31:33we would consider amputation of the leg in some cases.
0:31:34 > 0:31:38Chemotherapy is used quite routinely now in pets,
0:31:38 > 0:31:40as it is in humans.
0:31:40 > 0:31:44So it really would depend on what type of cancer it was.
0:31:46 > 0:31:49Mucker hobbles through to x-ray.
0:31:50 > 0:31:53Soon, the results are in.
0:31:53 > 0:31:55We've taken a quick shot of his hock,
0:31:55 > 0:31:58which is his ankle joint.
0:31:58 > 0:32:04What we can see is this enlarged area we were looking at in the consultation.
0:32:04 > 0:32:06The great news is that it's not cancer.
0:32:06 > 0:32:11The lump is actually a fluid-filled sac called a bursa.
0:32:11 > 0:32:14Kathy wants to treat it with medicine, not surgery.
0:32:15 > 0:32:20Mucker is not the sort of breed that you would want to anaesthetise
0:32:20 > 0:32:22without a very, very good reason.
0:32:22 > 0:32:25So we're not going to muck around with Mucker!
0:32:25 > 0:32:29We're assuming that this is a soft tissue swelling.
0:32:29 > 0:32:33I'm going to put him on some anti-inflammatories and some antibiotics.
0:32:33 > 0:32:37Hopefully, some of the swelling will come down,
0:32:37 > 0:32:39but we won't completely cure it.
0:32:39 > 0:32:42We'll have to watch it and in future give him more tablets for it.
0:32:45 > 0:32:50Before Mucker goes home, Kathy briefs John with information for his owners.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52She will ask why this has happened.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55I think partially the reason
0:32:55 > 0:33:00is friction where the skin overlaps the top of the hock.
0:33:00 > 0:33:04There's some swelling there and some fluid has formed
0:33:04 > 0:33:06over the outside of the joint.
0:33:06 > 0:33:10But that's all because he's quite an old dog,
0:33:10 > 0:33:14and getting up and down is probably quite difficult for him.
0:33:14 > 0:33:19The friction caused by that has led to this sac filling with fluid.
0:33:19 > 0:33:22- Yes.- Sure. But good news, it's not cancer.- Yes.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25- Adios, senorita!- See you later. - See you later.
0:33:25 > 0:33:26Come on, Mucker.
0:33:28 > 0:33:32So this old Mucker heads back to the ambulance ready for home,
0:33:32 > 0:33:37where he'll soon be reunited with some very relieved owners.
0:33:47 > 0:33:50Earlier, we saw Otis, a desperately ill cat.
0:33:53 > 0:33:57Otis was badly jaundiced, unable to eat and losing weight fast.
0:33:57 > 0:34:01He's immensely poorly. His liver function is very, very poor.
0:34:01 > 0:34:05He underwent long and complicated surgery.
0:34:06 > 0:34:08Right. So we have a very swollen liver.
0:34:08 > 0:34:13Finally, the team discovered he had a blocked bile duct.
0:34:13 > 0:34:15This affected the function of his liver.
0:34:15 > 0:34:22Surgeons were able to remove the blockage, but Otis still faced a long recovery.
0:34:23 > 0:34:27For the owner, Claudia, it's been a very distressing few weeks.
0:34:27 > 0:34:32I had lots of friends all willing him on, saying, "Come on, you can make this."
0:34:32 > 0:34:36I did go in occasionally and visit him, but you feel so cut off,
0:34:36 > 0:34:38him being in hospital and you being here.
0:34:38 > 0:34:44I tried to not think about it, but there are occasions when you think, "What if he doesn't make it?"
0:34:44 > 0:34:50It's very upsetting. I cried my eyes out, just thinking that it might not be a happy outcome.
0:34:50 > 0:34:55But for Otis and Claudia, it is a happy outcome.
0:34:56 > 0:34:58Otie!
0:34:58 > 0:35:00Come on, you!
0:35:01 > 0:35:04After making a full recovery, he's back home.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08Hello! You're such a good boy, aren't you?
0:35:08 > 0:35:11His off-colour days are now well and truly behind him.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14When we got him home, it was lovely.
0:35:14 > 0:35:17He stretched and walked around
0:35:17 > 0:35:19and just lay on the floor.
0:35:19 > 0:35:21Stretched out all his muscles.
0:35:21 > 0:35:24He's really enjoyed it and we've enjoyed having him back.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26LOUD MIAOWING
0:35:26 > 0:35:30Just a few weeks ago, Otis was unable to eat.
0:35:30 > 0:35:32Vets feared for his future.
0:35:32 > 0:35:34Bit louder, can't hear you(!)
0:35:34 > 0:35:38But now he has a renewed appetite for life,
0:35:38 > 0:35:40not to mention his food.
0:35:40 > 0:35:42You'd think they hadn't been fed for days!
0:35:49 > 0:35:51And in Grimsby, there's another happy ending.
0:35:51 > 0:35:56Earlier, Jenna Robinson had brought her inherited cat, Jasmine, into the hospital.
0:35:56 > 0:35:58I didn't know much about cats.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00And got more than she bargained for.
0:36:00 > 0:36:03Definitely some babies in there.
0:36:03 > 0:36:05Jasmine was pregnant.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07Less than two weeks to go now.
0:36:07 > 0:36:11Jenna hadn't wanted one cat, let alone a whole family,
0:36:11 > 0:36:14and wasn't sure what she should do.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22Three weeks later, this is Jasmine...
0:36:23 > 0:36:25..and her kitten, Juno.
0:36:28 > 0:36:32She's just started to open her eyes, just trying to walk.
0:36:32 > 0:36:33Still a bit wobbly.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36But she's lovely.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39A big ball of fluff!
0:36:39 > 0:36:41Mum and baby are doing really well.
0:36:42 > 0:36:46And both Jasmine and Juno are staying with Jenna.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49We're going to keep them both.
0:36:49 > 0:36:52Cos Jasmine's just my little girl now.
0:36:52 > 0:36:55And now I've got another one to look after.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59When Jenna inherited Jasmine from her aunt,
0:36:59 > 0:37:01she was very much a reluctant cat owner.
0:37:01 > 0:37:02Not any more.
0:37:02 > 0:37:06I've had her seven weeks and I've gone from hating cats
0:37:06 > 0:37:08to loving cats,
0:37:08 > 0:37:10to wanting to keep another one.
0:37:10 > 0:37:12It's just crackers!
0:37:20 > 0:37:25In Wales, RSPCA inspector Selina Chan has been visiting a small end terrace.
0:37:25 > 0:37:28The house was home to over 20 animals,
0:37:28 > 0:37:30all kept in dirty conditions.
0:37:30 > 0:37:35There was also a Chinese water dragon in a completely unsuitable vivarium.
0:37:35 > 0:37:38Selina's already taken away four of the animals,
0:37:38 > 0:37:42and left strict instructions for the others to be cleaned out.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53Selina's back at the hoarder's house to see if her advice has been followed.
0:37:53 > 0:37:55Hi.
0:37:55 > 0:37:58On this visit, our cameras aren't invited inside.
0:38:04 > 0:38:07It's soon clear the improvements have been made.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09I can see you've cleared the rubbish away
0:38:09 > 0:38:14and the litter trays are in and the floors are clean. There's food and water.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18And Selina is delighted with the water dragon's vivarium.
0:38:18 > 0:38:23I'm massively pleased with what you've done for the dragon. It's a really good job.
0:38:23 > 0:38:24Um, you know,
0:38:24 > 0:38:27well, it's practically a brilliant set-up.
0:38:27 > 0:38:31With the help of her family, things have taken a turn for the better.
0:38:31 > 0:38:35Hello, you. Looking a bit better as well.
0:38:35 > 0:38:38There is still work to be done here.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40But Selina's encouraged by the progress made.
0:38:40 > 0:38:44I can already see that it's a lot cleaner.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48Still a fair bit to clean, though, if you can take the bags away
0:38:48 > 0:38:51and put the patio slabs down properly.
0:38:51 > 0:38:55That would be great then. Brilliant. I'm really pleased with outside.
0:38:58 > 0:39:01And the owner's good intentions don't stop there.
0:39:01 > 0:39:04Bring her up to the van for me.
0:39:04 > 0:39:09Today she agrees to sign over a hamster and the young Jack Russell, Shiloh.
0:39:09 > 0:39:10Pop him in there for me.
0:39:10 > 0:39:15The young lady explained to me she doesn't want the larger terrier.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19This is quite common, especially with people who do hoard animals.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22The novelty wears off quite quickly
0:39:22 > 0:39:25and then they just want to get rid of it.
0:39:28 > 0:39:32Shiloh and the hamster are taken straight to the RSPCA clinic.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41Once they've been checked over, they'll be ready for re-homing.
0:39:41 > 0:39:43Come on.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48But when Selina arrives, there's another problem.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52Shiloh's a bit hesitant because I don't think he's ever been on a lead.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55He's not sure what he's meant to be doing.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58I'm sure if I took the lead off him, he'd walk around fine.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01But I'm gaining his trust now.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04Come on, then. Come on!
0:40:04 > 0:40:06Come on, then.
0:40:06 > 0:40:07Hey.
0:40:07 > 0:40:08Hello.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12Selina eventually wins Shiloh round.
0:40:14 > 0:40:16Good boy!
0:40:16 > 0:40:17Come here.
0:40:17 > 0:40:21But this reaction has shown he'll need a very special owner.
0:40:22 > 0:40:26Shiloh needs lots of TLC and a lot of attention.
0:40:26 > 0:40:29Someone who has time to do some training with him,
0:40:29 > 0:40:33get him out on the lead and show him that's normal.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36But I'm sure we can find someone who's willing to take him on.
0:40:41 > 0:40:43And a few weeks later,
0:40:43 > 0:40:46Shiloh has met that perfect match!
0:40:46 > 0:40:48What's this?
0:40:48 > 0:40:50Come here.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52Shiloh, come on.
0:40:53 > 0:40:54Come on.
0:40:54 > 0:40:59He's now living with Ben Fennell, who's been giving him lessons in how to behave.
0:40:59 > 0:41:01There you go.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04All his nervousness has gone
0:41:04 > 0:41:07and he's no longer frightened of the lead.
0:41:07 > 0:41:10We had a list of what we were looking for in a dog
0:41:10 > 0:41:13and this little monster near enough ticked every single box.
0:41:13 > 0:41:16It was absolutely perfect for us.
0:41:18 > 0:41:20Good boy.
0:41:20 > 0:41:22Last year, Ben's old dog died,
0:41:22 > 0:41:25but Ben's loss is Shiloh's gain.
0:41:25 > 0:41:28I get an awful lot out of having Shiloh in the house.
0:41:28 > 0:41:30With the house empty,
0:41:30 > 0:41:33it was a case of didn't want to come home
0:41:33 > 0:41:37cos of walking through the door and not having anyone there to say hello to.
0:41:37 > 0:41:40He's always happy to see me when I come home.
0:41:40 > 0:41:44If I go out of the room just for five minutes, he's hyper to see me again.
0:41:44 > 0:41:46Aren't you, mister?
0:41:47 > 0:41:50Among the skills Ben's trying to teach him
0:41:50 > 0:41:52is how to be safe on the roads.
0:41:52 > 0:41:54Wait.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56Good boy.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58Straight over. Come on.
0:41:58 > 0:41:59Good boy!
0:42:02 > 0:42:04Good boy.
0:42:04 > 0:42:06And along with lessons on safety...
0:42:07 > 0:42:09Straight over. Good boy!
0:42:09 > 0:42:12..he's also picking up a few tricks!
0:42:13 > 0:42:15Good boy!
0:42:15 > 0:42:17Good boy!
0:42:20 > 0:42:24All the animals Selina took away have been found new owners.
0:42:26 > 0:42:28And, like Shiloh, they're now enjoying a life
0:42:28 > 0:42:31where they can finally be at the centre of attention.
0:42:33 > 0:42:35Good boy!
0:42:37 > 0:42:41If you think you know of a case of wildlife crime
0:42:41 > 0:42:43or a creature that needs immediate protection,
0:42:43 > 0:42:47remember there are dedicated professionals out there
0:42:47 > 0:42:49who will answer your call right around the clock.
0:42:49 > 0:42:53They are the people we meet on Animal 24:7.
0:43:18 > 0:43:21Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd