Animal neglect cases on the rise across the South West
The RSPCA's shared figures for the first nine months of 2024
The RSPCA say they've seen a spike animal neglect reports across the South West during the first nine months of this year and fears the problem is about to get worse as more pet owners face financial hardship at Christmas.
Across the South West, in the first nine months of 2024:
- 951 incidents of neglect were reported in Somerset - up 28 per cent
- More than 1200 incidents of neglect were reported in Bristol and Somerset combined
- 562 incidents of neglect were reported in Cornwall - up 14 per cent
- 1,038 incidents of neglect were reported in Devon - up 19 per cent
- 624 incidents of neglect were reported in Gloucestershire - up 13 per cent
- 513 incidents of neglect were reported in Wiltshire - up 16 per cent
Nationwide, the charity's seen incidents go up by almost a quarter, with nearly 49,000 cases called in to them - that's an average of 15 reported incidents of neglect every single hour - or one every 4 minutes.
RSPCA Superintendent Jo Hirst said: "The large 25% increase in the number of pet neglect calls we are taking is a major concern during our busy winter period when many people are facing more financial difficulties, and we fear this upsetting trend will continue.
“One call every four minutes is a frightening statistic. Coupled with this we have also seen a startling increase in abandonment cases up 30% in just three years.
“Sadly we expect the crisis to worsen as more people tend to struggle with increased costs around Christmas time with presents to buy and extra food shopping - along with energy bills.
“But we can make a difference, which is why we are asking the public to support our appeal, Join The Christmas Rescue, and help our rescuers, veterinary teams, branches and centre staff, who work tirelessly to give animals the urgent treatment and love that will save their lives.”
Two-year-old Rupert (pictured top) is looking for a home after being rescued by the RSPCA in Wiltshire.
He's described as a 'happy go lucky boy who loves people, and will greet you with the best waggy tail'.
Jo added: “To help more neglected animals we must work together to make it a happy Christmas for every kind. We’re calling on everyone who believes that no animal should be left to suffer this Christmas to donate to our appeal today.”