Three-year peak in dog welfare reports in Somerset
The RSPCA say the number of reports has hiked this year because of the impact of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis
Last updated 20th Dec 2023
The number of reports in Somerset of concerns for dogs has reached a three-year high.
The RSPCA have revealed more than 900 incidents have involved dogs in 2023, up by 6.5 per cent compared to 2020 levels, with 1889 animal welfare reports recorded in the county this year alone.
Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “We need your help now more than ever as shocking figures show that dog welfare reports have hit a three-year peak in Somerset. Nationally, we’ve also seen neglect and abandonment reports reach a three-year high which is also incredibly concerning.
"The combined effects of the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis has created a perfect storm - and means we expect more animals than ever will need our help this year. “Behind these statistics are thousands of vulnerable animals just like these five huskies we rescued from a life of neglect.”
Neglected husky dogs who were rescued by the RSPCA after they were found living in a hallway are now celebrating their first Christmas in their forever homes.
Three adult dogs and two puppies were kept in a hallway with a single cage, with no access to bedding, water or food.
The RSPCA say the property smelled strongly of stale urine, whilst two of the adult dogs, Rex and Susie, were also 'noticeably thin'.
Later tests of the two puppies, Bella and Annie, revealed that they, along with Rex and Rosie, had suffered permanent kidney damage from a lack of water.
Following an investigation by the RSPCA, Rex and Susie came into the care of the RSPCA Brent Knoll Branch while Rosie and her two puppies went into the care of RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre near Taunton.
Earlier this year, the woman responsible pleaded guilty to three animal welfare offences - two of causing unnecessary suffering and one of failing to meet all of the dogs' needs.
She was disqualified from keeping all animals for 15 years, which she cannot contest for 10 years, sentenced to six months custody suspended for two years and ordered to pay £600 in costs.
All the dogs were rehabilitated before being rehomed and will now be spending their first Christmas being spoiled in their loving forever homes.
Dermot added: “It’s so heartening to see stories like these where the lives of these dogs have been completely transformed. But sadly we know that as many of us prepare for a cosy Christmas with our loved ones and our much-loved pets, there are sadly thousands of animals facing a bleaker reality. The RSPCA needs your help more than ever to help animals because neglect and abandonment are reaching a three-year high this festive season.
“Abandonments have soared and many rescue centres are full to bursting. Right now, thousands of animals are facing pain and misery."
You can find out more about the RSPCA and their work here - and you can find out how to 'join the Christmas rescue' here.