RSPCA braced for ‘animal welfare crisis’ as cruelty reports rise

The RSPCA’s No Animal Deserves Cruelty appeal seeks to cut down on a typically seasonal rise in attacks.

Karen Colman, who leads its welfare oversight team, said: “Reports of intentional harm towards animals and beatings rose sharply across the country last summer – so we’re preparing for a difficult period ahead.

“But rescuing animals from cruelty, investigating harm caused to them, and acting to prevent animal abuse, is a job no other charity does. We’ll always be here to pick up the pieces and show those animals the kindness and care they deserve.”

The charity appealed for information after a dead dog was discovered on a footpath tied to a plastic bag in Oxfordshire in September 2023.

It said the rottweiler’s body was found near Keens Lane in Chinnor, with the bag thought to have been used to drag him along the track.

He also had calluses on his elbows, something commonly seen in dogs who live outside.