Latest news with #SummerCrueltyCampaign

South Wales Argus
11-07-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
RSPCA Newport braced for spike in animal cruelty reports
The charity has revealed that July 10 is typically its busiest day of the summer, with more than 1,000 incidents recorded on that date last year across England and Wales. In total, 1,157 incidents were reported on July 10, 2024—equivalent to 48 every hour. Cassie Newman, director of operations at the RSPCA, said: "Many people are often surprised to hear that we receive more reports of cruelty in summer than at any other time of year. "This means that not only are our officers incredibly busy responding to reports and rescuing animals from cruelty but our animal centres and hospitals are under even more pressure at a time when they are faced with the kitten season potentially resulting in an increased intake in cats, pets being abandoned when their owners go on holiday, and a peak in cruelty—partly due to the longer days." The RSPCA's Newport Animal Centre is among those preparing for the seasonal spike in demand. The charity has launched its Summer Cruelty Campaign to raise awareness and support. Ms Newman said: "In order to be able to care for all the animals coming through our doors, RSPCA Newport Animal Centre needs the public's support at this critical time. "That's why we've launched the Summer Cruelty Campaign. "Together, we can rescue animals from the worst cruelty, provide life-saving treatment, and give them all the care and love they urgently need." The centre is currently caring for Nala, a three-year-old terrier cross who first arrived in March 2024. She was rehomed in June but was returned and has since been under the care of the Newport team. Nala is described as playful but sensitive and would need a quiet, adult-only home without other pets. The RSPCA says summer should be a time of happiness for animals, but for many, it becomes a season of 'pain, fear, and suffering.' More information about the campaign and how to support the RSPCA is available on the charity's website.


ITV News
02-07-2025
- ITV News
Four puppies found abandoned in shoebox box at Hampshire cemetery
The RSPCA is appealing for information after four young puppies were found abandoned in a shoebox that had been dumped in a cemetery. The pups, thought to be just days old, were discovered by a member of the public who rushed them to the vet who contacted the animal welfare charity to report the concerning discovery. The pups, who have been named Draco, Malfoy, Bones and Gravy by rescuers, were found at Westbourne Cemetery in Emsworth around 3:30pm on Tuesday (24 June). RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Morgan Ellison said: "It's heartbreaking that these puppies were abandoned in such a thoughtless way. They should be with their mum but instead were thrown away like rubbish. "They were found by someone attending their mum's grave and taken to the vet where the nurse took them into care overnight before calling it in to us. We're so grateful to everyone who has shown kindness by helping them. "They are now at The Stubbington Ark where they are getting care and support. "It's never the right thing to do to abandon an animal. There is plenty of help and advice out there for struggling pet owners, such as on the RSPCA's website." Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA's appeals line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01556113. The team at The Stubbington Ark, the rescue centre run by the RSPCA Solent Branch, are also appealing for help to cover the cost of caring for the pups. New figures released by the RSPCA show a massive 33% annual increase in cruelty reports to the charity during the summer period across England and Wales - with reports on the rise in Hampshire too. The animal welfare charity has released the statistics as part of its Summer Cruelty Campaign, showing the side of this season which many people don't see, when animal cruelty reports peak. In June, July and August last year across England and Wales the RSPCA took 34,401* cruelty calls to their emergency line - compared to 25,887* the year before, showing an increase by a third. On average, it took 374 reports of cruelty against animals every single day during this period, or one call every two minutes the line was open. And in Hampshire the number of cruelty reports over the summer months increased from 657 (2023) to 779 reports last year, an 18% increase.


Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Adorable dog Bruno baffles rescue centre staff as no one wants to adopt him
The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home (CDCH) has released an adoption appeal for lovable Lurcher Bruno, who despite charming visitors on open days, has struggled to find his forever home Workers at a rescue centre are left perplexed after struggling to rehome a lovable Lurcher. The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home (CDCH) is putting out a heartfelt appeal for Bruno - a handsome, affectionate pooch who has been in the centre's care since November 2024. Despite his loving nature, Bruno has only received three adoption enquiries in over seven months, none of which led to a new home. The Lurcher, aged two years and four months, is adored by staff and volunteers at CDCH. Described as a "vest for life" kind of dog, he thrives on human affection, loves cuddles on the sofa, and melts hearts with his waggy-tailed greetings and gentle kisses at open days. His charm and sweetness have made him a firm favourite with visiting families, and the team can't understand why he continues to be overlooked. "Bruno truly is a people's dog," says Shannon Clark, animal care assistant. "He'd thrive in a family environment and would be a great companion for children. He's affectionate, loyal, and simply wants to be around people who will love him back." Like many dogs in their care, Bruno has faced a few behavioural hurdles - namely, barrier frustration. This means he can be reactive on the lead when he sees other dogs, simply because he's frustrated he can't greet them properly. With patience and consistent training, Bruno has already made several canine friends at the centre and enjoys going on walks with them. "Barrier frustration is very manageable with the right guidance," explains Ebony Poole, animal operations lead. "Bruno has made good progress. He just needs a family willing to continue that journey with him. In return, he'll give you his whole heart." Due to his sweet and friendly temperament, Bruno could happily live with children aged 8 and over. He must be adopted as a lone dog and not housed with cats. CDCH is urging potential adopters to look beyond initial labels and see the loyal, cuddly, people-loving soul behind Bruno's wagging tail. "After months of waiting, it's time Bruno finds the home he so deeply deserves," they added. Meanwhile, the RSPCA has today released shocking new figures that show a massive 33% annual increase in cruelty reports to the charity during the summer period - fuelling fears of another crisis this year. The animal welfare charity has released the startling new statistics as part of its Summer Cruelty Campaign - showing the side of this season which many people don't see - when animal cruelty reports peak. In June, July and August last year the RSPCA took 34,401 cruelty calls to their emergency line - compared to 25,887 the year before - up by a third. On average it took 374 reports of cruelty against animals every single day during this period or one call every two minutes the line was open.