RSPCA launches plea after staggering increase in dog cruelty across Northumberland

The RSPCA has revealed there were 215 reports of cruelty towards dogs in Northumberland last year.

Nationally, there was a 7% increase in reports made to the animal charity about dogs- including intentional harm, neglect and abandonments. Shockingly, there were 50 reports of intentional harm to dogs in the county in 2022.

Sadly, in the summer months cruelty rises and the RSPCA braces for its busiest time of year. And so the organisation has launched its Cancel Out Cruelty campaign to raise funds to help its frontline rescue teams to save at-risk animals.

Lindsey Avery, RSPCA chief inspector for Northumberland, said: “For hundreds of years dogs have been known as man’s best friend - and if you share your home with one, you will know why, as they are such loyal and loving companions.

“But these awful statistics tell a different story. Dogs are the most abused animal in this country and we investigate more complaints about them than any other type of animal.”

In 2022, the charity saw a 22% increase in reports of beatings which peaked in August where 35 reports were made a day.

The number of animals killed in ‘suspicious circumstances’ also increased in 2022 by a staggering 15%.

“Everyone who cares about animals will be sickened to know how many reports we receive about dogs being kicked, beaten, burned or worse. We need the public’s help to Cancel Out Cruelty. Their donations, no matter how small, help keep our frontline officers out on the road rescuing animals and investigating these terrible reports.”

As the only charity in England and Wales investigating cruelty and rescuing animals, the RSPCA needs support to stay out on the frontline:

• £2 could help to provide a meal for a cat or dog in our care
• £6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care
• £10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog
• £15 could help pay for a cat or dog’s clinical exam
• £20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit
• £30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector
• £100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment
• £500 could kit out a 4x4 inspector van

The RSPCA’s frontline teams are working hard to rescue animals in need this summer but they can’t do it alone - we need your help to Cancel Out Cruelty. To help support the RSPCA, visit: www.rspca.org.uk/cruelty