20/07/2005

RSPCA calls for tougher penalties on huge cruelty case increase

The RSPCA has today called on the government to bring in a new Animal Welfare Bill urgently after the animal welfare charity revealed that there has been an almost 80% rise in cruelty cases in the last year.

Many cases of violence and neglect made the news in 2004 - the latest figures released today by the RSPCA show a massive rise in the number of animals not getting even the most basic care and attention.

Of the 1,043,114 animals seen by inspectors between 1 June 2004 and 31 May 2005, figures showed:
  • 68,732 animals' basic needs not being met - a 78% increase;
  • 19,352 animals not having access to water - a 96% increase;
  • 2,924 animals suffering because advice given is being ignored - a 90% increase;
  • dogs most at risk -18,334 not receiving basic care.
RSPCA Director General Jackie Ballard said: "These statistics are truly shocking and we must ask the government to take notice and act now.

"It is staggering that nearly 20,000 animals have not been getting access to water. What does this say about society when even the most basic needs of a living creature are denied? This information shows more than ever that there are some people out there who really should not own an animal if they cannot appreciate the most basic of requirements."

The Society also released images of some of the victims of appalling suffering that came to court in 2004.

Among the shocking pictures is a dog with a tumour covering half its face and a puppy that had its ears cut off with scissors by its owner. Other gruesome cases, which came to court in 2004, included a case where more than 80 dead exotic animals were found in a freezer. Another case involving three horses, pictures showed one was so badly neglected that its 20-inch overgrown hooves resembled ram's horns.

The RSPCA highlighted that under current legislation inspectors have to wait for the death or deterioration of an animal at risk before they are allowed them to intervene.

The charity has asked people to lobby their MPs in writing to show support for the Animal Welfare Bill.

Visit www.rspca.org.uk/actnow for further details.

(SP/GB)

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