The RSPCA received 169 reports of cruelty to dogs in Herefordshire in 2023, shocking figures from the animal charity shows.
Nationally, in 2023, the RSPCA received 52,662 reports about cruelty to dogs – around 144 a day – compared to 48,567 in 2022 – an increase of 8% in just one year.
The charity received 42,613 reports on cruelty to dogs in 2020, marking a 23% increase in just four years. In 2021, the number of reports was 44,479 – meaning the figures have been rising year-on-year.
The new figures have been released by the RSPCA as part of its No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal.
“It is heartbreaking that more dogs need our help – we need to make a stand against this and say ‘no more’,” said Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive of the RSPCA.
“Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend, yet more and more dogs are being subjected to cruelty every year. Dogs are the most popular pet in the UK yet also the ones who potentially suffer the most.
“We would love to see, next year, cruelty going down. We know we can’t do this alone – so our purpose is for everyone to work together to create a kinder world for animals.
“That’s why we’ve launched our summer appeal, because it’s vital that we all take action together to help animals like these dogs.”
Herefordshire case study
The RSPCA launched an appeal for information after a dead dog was sadly discovered in Leominister.
A member of the public found the body in a grassy area amongst leaves on Ridgemoor Road in December last year. The body was found between a children’s play area, and a footpath.
RSPCA inspector Claire Davey, who investigated, said: “The body was a male red/tan dog, possibly a chihuahua or terrier cross, and is believed to be an older puppy/young adult. He had no microchip, and had a brown plastic collar with no tag.
“The finder said there was also a blanket found near the body, but this was not there when I attended. It appears that the dog either died elsewhere and was placed there, or that it curled up and passed away in the pile of leaves.”
To donate to the RSPCA’s No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal, go to rspca.org.uk/appeal.
If you suspect an animal is being cruelly treated, you can find out how to report this on the RSPCA’s website.
Before contacting the RSPCA to make a report, be sure you have the following information to hand:
- Your name, address and telephone number
- The date, time and location/address of the incident – you can use what3words for a precise location
- A description of the animal’s environment and body condition
- If known, the name and address of the person involved
- Names and addresses of any witnesses
- The registration number and description of any vehicle involved.
All reports made to the RSPCA are made in confidence.
