Mental health workers need to be aware of this growing phenomenon, and how collaborating with other services can tackle the problem, says Bronwen Williams

Little is understood about animal hoarding, but it is believed to occur in most communities (Patronek 1999). By the nature of its presentation and its association with mental illness, cases will come to the attention of mental health services. Animal hoarding is a complex issue and one that is not improved by simply removing the animals, because acquisition of more animals will often occur. The behaviour has significant effects on the individual concerned, their family members, animals and communities, with huge costs to services.

This article highlights the issue and recommends that legislation relating to humans and animals, as well as the roles of different agencies, needs to be understood by mental health practitioners.