Reports of suspected animal cruelty on the Isle of Wight increased by more than a quarter last summer, according to new figures released by the RSPCA.
The animal welfare charity says it received 24 cruelty reports from the Isle of Wight during June, July and August 2025, up from 19 over the same period in 2024 – a 26% increase, making it the eighth largest rise anywhere in England and Wales.
The figures have been published as part of the RSPCA’s Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues fundraising campaign, which highlights the growing demand on its frontline rescue teams during the summer months.
Nationally, the charity says it received 6,322 cruelty calls between June and August last year – the equivalent of one every 10 minutes while its emergency line was open. That compares to 3,852 calls during the same period in 2021, representing a 64% increase over 5 years.
One of the animals currently awaiting a new home through the RSPCA Isle of Wight Branch is Juno, described as a sweet-natured dog who enjoys relaxing with people he trusts but needs time to build confidence around new faces.
The charity says staff have been helping Juno develop positive associations with handling through reward-based training, and that he has been making good progress both at the centre and on walks.
According to RSPCA Superintendent Jo Hirst:
“It’s incredibly alarming that we are seeing such rising reports of cruelty. The summer months are our busiest time of year and our frontline rescue teams, specialist vets, behaviourists, rehabilitation and rehoming teams will be working tirelessly to help as many animals as possible.
Article continues below this advertisement “Today, in response to the crisis, we have launched our Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign to highlight this shocking trend and the work we are doing to save so many animals from horrific abuse and suffering.”
The RSPCA has also highlighted concerns about the link between domestic abuse and animal cruelty, warning that pets can become victims in abusive households.
The charity has launched a dedicated domestic abuse advice page on its website, offering guidance for those worried about the safety of themselves and their pets, including information on emergency pet fostering services.
Anyone who believes an animal is suffering cruelty or neglect can report their concerns to the RSPCA. Those affected by domestic abuse are urged to contact the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247, or dial 999 if they are in immediate danger.
Anyone who harms animals are inhumane