RSPCA figures uncover cruelty spike during summer months for Tyne and Wear

According to new figures from the RSPCA, the charity has received a spike in cruelty calls over the summer period.

New statistics show that a total of 226 reports of intentional harm against animals were made to the RSPCA.

The figures from last summer coincide with a country-wide increase of 7.9% of animal cruelty calls from summer 2020 to summer 2021.

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 everyday 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.”

Over the course of 2021, the RSPCA are said to have received 1,081,018 calls to its Cruelty Line.

Reports of 1,094 killings, 632 mutilations and 7,857 beatings shocked Murphy.

The Chief Inspectorate Officer added: “These figures are shocking and deeply upsetting and show why we need your help to save those animals who need us the most now more than ever.

As a charity, we are bracing to tackle a summer of suffering but we cannot do this without your help.”

One incident reported in Newcastle was attended to by the RSPCA after a concerned member of the public reported a bullmastiff left at a property and in need of medical intervention.

The RSPCA took the dog, who showed signs of irritated skin and a flea infestation, in for examination, who concluded a tumour had been present for a month.

An operation to remove the tumour from the dog’s leg was carried out and the dog has made a recovery and now looking for a new home.