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The RSPCA Receives A Call For Help Every 30 Seconds

The RSPCA Receives A Call For Help Every 30 Seconds

We need to take the issue of animal cruelty more seriously

EMS 7

EMS 7

If ever we needed evidence that the issue of animal cruelty needs highlighting even further, just take a look at the shocking figures released by the RSPCA. According to the non-profit, they receive a call for help approximately every 30 seconds.

Due to the pressures of such a high volume of callers and a limited number of officers, the company states it needs to prioritise cases where the law is actually being broken and can only attend to a site when an animal is in imminent danger. This is the same when reporting stray and abandoned animals, or ones that have been hurt.

That said, while the RSPCA is clearly under a lot of pressure, it is still important to remember to stay vigilant when it comes to animal cruelty. Neglect against a pet can often be ignored or go unnoticed, so if you see an animal in distress or being mistreated in any way, report it to the appropriate authorities.

It's important we don't brush it aside.

RSPCA

"Please be patient," says the website. "If you're concerned the situation is worsening, please contact us again."

In an ideal world, no creature would be harmed or have to suffer, but unfortunately that's not the world we live in - so for now the RSPCA is depending on the donations it's offered from the public and supporting organisations.

Speaking to South Wales Argus last autumn, Sarah Colberg - a spokeswoman from the RSPCA - said: "Our 24-hour helpline receives a call on average every 30 seconds and, last year alone we received over one million calls and rescued over 114,000 animals.

"We are only able to be there for animals in need due to generous donations and support so thank you to everyone for getting involved."

If you see an animal or a pet that you think is being neglected or is suffering, it's important to consider the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which makes owners and keepers responsible for ensuring that the welfare needs of their animals are met.

RSPCA

This means they're required to meet The Five Freedoms, which includes the need for a suitable environment (place to live); a suitable diet; to exhibit normal behaviour patterns; to be housed with, or apart from, other animals (if applicable); and to be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease.

When it comes to animals (wild or domestic) that you believe to be injured or whose welfare is under concern, you should contact the RSPCA for advice on 0300 1234 999 or log an enquiry on My RSPCA.

Alternatively, if you see an animal that is in immediate danger of its life - like a dog locked in a hot car - then you should contact the local police to come and sort it out immediately.

Per the RSPCA: "Every year thousands of animals suffer from neglect, cruelty and abuse. With your help, we can end their misery."

Featured Image Credit: RSPCA

Topics: Animal Cruelty, RSPCA, Pets, Charity, Animal Welfare, Animals, Cats, Dogs