New RSPCA figures reveal 290 reports of summer cruelty in Cumbria
Cumbria has seen a 7% annual increase in animal cruelty
Shocking new figures released by the RSPCA show a massive 33% annual increase in cruelty reports to the charity during the summer period across England and Wales - with reports on the rise in Cumbria too.
The animal welfare charity has released the startling new statistics today as part of its Summer Cruelty Campaign - showing the side of this season which many people don’t see - when animal cruelty reports peak.
In June, July and August last year across England and Wales the RSPCA took 34,401 cruelty calls to their emergency line - compared to 25,887 the year before - showing an increase by A THIRD.
On average it took 374 reports of cruelty against animals every single day during this period or one call EVERY two minutes the line was open.
And in Cumbria, the number of cruelty reports over the summer months increased from 271 (2023) to 290 reports last year - a 7% increase.
Last year the RSPCA investigated a man in Cumbria who was taken to court after three dogs were reported to have been left suffering with a variety of serious wounds.
These included serious face injuries, muzzle injuries and a degloved jaw - after they were used in hunting and no veterinary attention was sought. He pleaded guilty to three offences and the dogs were all taken into RSPCA care to find new homes.
The RSPCA fears the surge in summer cruelty is due partly to a fall-out following the increase in pet ownership around the Covid pandemic - while longer summer days when more people are out and about means more people are likely to witness incidents of violence.
But according to a new YouGov survey 78% of UK adults are unaware that most cases of animal cruelty are reported in England and Wales during the summer.
RSPCA Chief Inspector Ian Briggs, an expert in cruelty cases, added: "We are seeing a shocking rise in the number of seasonal calls reporting animal cruelty to our emergency line. Sadly the summer months tend to be when these reports peak.
"We don’t know for sure why cruelty peaks at this time of year, but the surge in pet ownership during the pandemic has played a factor, while the longer days mean more people may witness and report such violence.
"This year, sadly, we fear the trend will continue and we are busier than ever rescuing animals from many awful situations. Many are broken by violence - not just physically but mentally - and our dedicated network of branches, animal centres and rescue teams work wonders in nursing them back to health and showing them how love can help transform their lives.
"To continue this work we rely on people’s support. Together, we can rescue animals from the worst cruelty, provide life-saving treatment, and give them all the care and love they urgently need. We’re so grateful to anyone backing the Summer Cruelty Appeal and choosing to donate."