Shocking new statistics released by the RSPCA have revealed that in so far in 2023, a total of 116 neglect reports have been received here on the Isle of Wight. New figures from the animal welfare charity show that, up to the end of October, its dedicated emergency line had received 43,360 reports of neglect across the United Kingdom. The number of reports the charity had about neglect in October (4,387) – was also higher than the number in that month of 2022 (3,818), 2021 (4,186) and 2020 (3,931) – with incidents shooting up an eye-watering 14.9% compared to last year. The data follows previous statistics suggesting calls about abandoned animals are at a three-year high, with the charity expecting to receive more than 21,400 calls about unwanted and dumped animals this year too. Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said:
“Thousands of animals’ lives are hanging in the balance this Christmas with animal neglect reports a real cause for concern – including from the Isle of Wight. “Across England and Wales, our emergency line is getting a call about a neglected animal every 288 seconds. Combine those levels of neglect with rising abandonments, the cost of living crisis, and the cold weather this winter, and we fear this could be a very bleak time for animals. “But there is hope. Our frontline officers work tirelessly to bring neglected animals to safety – and it’s the kind-hearted public who power these rescue efforts. “This winter, our rescue teams are set to be very busy trying to help and reach so many neglected animals – which is why we need animal lovers to join the Christmas rescue now more than ever, and donate to help us be there for neglected animals in their time of need.”
