RSPCA figures reveal scale of animal cruelty in 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 110 reports of intentional harm against animals in the county last year, including reports of beatings, ear cropping, poisonings and even killings.
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.”