RSPCA figures reveal scale of animal cruelty in Norfolk and Suffolk
The number of reports made to the charity's cruelty line between summer 2020 and summer 2021 increased by almost 8%.
Last updated 8th Jul 2022
New RSPCA figures have revealed the scale of animal cruelty in Suffolk, as the charity warns its expecting a spike in reports over the summer.
The charity says it received 156 reports of intentional harm against animals in Norfolk last year, including reports of beatings, ear cropping, poisonings and even killings.
There were 110 incidents reported in Suffolk.
The number of reports made to the charity's cruelty line between summer 2020 and summer 2021 increased by almost 8%.
The organisation's just launched its 'Cancel Out Cruelty' campaign, to raise cash to save animals from abuse.
Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer at the RSPCA, said:
“We are a nation of animal lovers and no one wants to think of an animal being cruelly treated but sadly the reality is that every day animals are victims of deliberate cruelty and thankfully the RSPCA is there to help them.
“There are many factors which could explain why we see a rise in cruelty during the summer months.
"The longer sunny days could mean people are out and about more and likely to see and report abuse. Hot summer days can also lead to more people drinking alcohol in the sun which in turn can be a factor causing violence.
"Perhaps there is boredom or pressures at home with children being off school which can make existing difficulties magnified.
“And this year, we are also concerned that the recent rise in pet ownership coupled with the cost of living crisis could see people really struggling to care for their pets which may lead them to lash out or could see more animals than ever being abandoned or given up.”