RSPCA plea amid area’s rising cases
Reports to the RSPCA of dog welfare concerns across Somerset have hit a three year high, new figures show.
A total of 1,889 animal welfare incidents were reported across the county in 2023, including 900 concerning dogs.
From 2020 to 2023, there was also a 6.5% increase in the number of dog welfare complaints made in the county - the highest of any other animal.
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 we rescued from a life of neglect.”
Animals helped by the RSPCA this year included three adult dogs and two puppies kept in a hallway with a single cage, with no access to bedding, water or food.
The property smelled strongly of stale urine and sadly, two of the adult dogs, Rex and Susie, were also noticeably thin.
The two puppies, Bella and Annie, were very subdued and tests later 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.
All the dogs were rehabilitated before being rehomed and spent 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 prepared for a cosy Christmas with our loved ones and our much-loved pets, there
❝ We need your help now more than ever as shocking figures show that dog welfare reports have hit a three-year peak in Somerset. Dermot Murphy, RSPCA
were sadly thousands of animals facing a bleaker reality.
“The RSPCA needs help more than ever to help animals because neglect and abandonment are reaching a three-year high this festive season.”
Dermot said: “Abandonments have soared and many rescue centres are full to bursting. Right now, thousands of animals are facing pain and misery.”
To support the RSPCA go to: https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/donate.