Dorset averages 53 animal neglect calls a month to RSPCA up to October
Shocking new data has been revealed by the RSPCA
Animal charity the RSCPA have released some disturbing new statistics that show they took a call about a neglected animal once every five minutes in the first 10 months of 2023.
Up to the end of October, the charity's dedicated emergency line received over 43,000 reports of animal neglect, with 537 of them being in Dorset..
Animal neglect is on the rise, with RSCPA figures showing a 14.9% increase during October this year compared to 2022.
In response to the concerning data, the charity has launched it's Christmas Rescue campaign, aimed at saving pets and animals from a potentially 'bleak' winter.
Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “Thousands of animals' lives are hanging in the balance this Christmas with animal neglect reports a real cause for concern - including in Dorset.
“Across England and Wales, our emergency line is getting a call about a neglected animal every 288 seconds. Combine those levels of neglect with rising abandonments, the cost of living crisis, and the cold weather this winter, and we fear this could be a very bleak time for animals.
“But there is hope. Our frontline officers work tirelessly to bring neglected animals to safety - and it's the kind-hearted public who power these rescue efforts.
"Our rescue teams are set to be very busy trying to help and reach so many neglected animals - which is why we need animal lovers to join the Christmas rescue now more than ever, and donate to help us be there for neglected animals in their time of need."
Data previously released by the charity has suggested calls about abandoned animals are at a three-year high.
Who have the RSPCA have helped?
One animal the charity has been able to help before having it's life transformed is Peter the cat.
He was found by an RSPCA response team in one of seven stacked cages, that were 3ftx2ft, giving the nine cats inside the cages very little room for exercise or anywhere clean. They had no food, a filthy water bowl and overflowing litter trays, which made breathing in the room difficult for the response team.
It was found that Peter had a flea infestation, as well as yellow staining to the white fur on his paws thanks to the disgusting environment.
But after the care and support of the RSPCA team, Peter has been rehomed.
Another animal they've been able to save is Bramble the dog.
Bramble had previously been used for badger hunting, but this cruel activity has left the pooch with disfigurements to her face. It doesn't affect her health but sadly, it means she's easily judged.
But once she gets to know you, Bramble oozes love and affection. She's currently being kept in kennels, awaiting her forever home.