16% rise in animal neglect cases across Wiltshire this year
The RSPCA's shared figures for the first nine months of 2024
The RSPCA say they've seen a 16% increase in animal neglect reports in Wiltshire 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.
The animal welfare charity said that between January and September 2024 its emergency cruelty line recorded 532 incidents of neglect in our county alone.
There were also 1,236 cases reported in Hampshire - also a 16% rise on 2023's figures.
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.”