Nearly 130 reports of animal cruelty made in Dorset last year
They've increased nationally as well
Last updated 12th Jul 2022
New RSPCA figures have revealed the scale of animal cruelty in Dorset, as the charity warns its expecting a spike in reports over the summer.
The charity says it received 129 reports of intentional harm against animals in the county last year.
Last summer, wildlife became the victims of heartless cruelty after someone armed with a catapult injured ducks and swans near Poole.
A female mallard was injured in one incident, with a young cygnet targeted in another attack which was reported to the charity.
Inspector Miranda Albinson helped the cygnet to safety and despite the painful experience, the cygnet did not have any serious long term injuries and was released back with his family.
Nationally, there was a rise in incidents as well.
The number of reports made to the charity's cruelty line between summer 2020 and summer 2021 increased by almost 8%.
These included incidents like beatings, mutilations such as ear cropping, poisonings and even killings.
The organisation's just launched its 'Cancel Out Cruelty' campaign, to raise cash to save animals from abuse.
It's because they see a spike in incidents during the summer months.
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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.”