Animal welfare concerns are raised across the UK as the RSPCA braces itself for rise in animal abuse during summer months.
Data released from the charity show that there have been 44,879 reports of animal cruelty this year across England and Wales which is a 896 rise from the calls received during the same period last year.
Animal abuse ‘peaks’ in summer months
The rise in animal abuse from the beginning of the year through to the end of June sparks fears as heading into the summer months the charity receives ‘more reports of cruelty in summer than any other time of year’ with someone calling to report an animal being abused every five minutes.
“Reports of intentional harm towards animals and beatings rose sharply across the country last summer – so we’re preparing for a difficult period ahead,’ said Karen Colman, head of the RSPCA welfare oversight team.
“…But rescuing animals from cruelty, investigating harm caused to them, and acting to prevent animal abuse, is a job no other charity does. We’ll always be here to pick up the pieces and show those animals the kindness and care they deserve”
Shocking animal abuse reports in 2024
Two brothers were jailed for over 8 years combined in January this year after footage showed the pair torturing animals. Kristen Cooper was jailed for five years, and Todd Cooper, 29 received three years and eight months at Southampton Crown Court.
In March 2024 bodies of up to 50 dead hares, a kestrel and a barn owl were left scattered in front of Broughton Community Shop in Hampshire. The horrific scenes were described as “devastating” for the workers by shop treasurer Mike Hensman.
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This month a woman in Cork was banned for life from keeping animals after keeping 13 dogs and puppies in poor conditions without access to food and water, and eight dogs packed into one cage suitable to hold only two adult dogs.
How you can help
The RSPCA launched its ‘No Animal Deserves Cruelty’ campaign this summer. They are asking for donations from the public to help change the lives of animals they help to rescue.
For more information on the No Animal Deserves Cruelty campaign click this link.
