Latest figures revealed by the RSPCA have confirmed that a total of 106 neglect incidents were reported on the Isle of Wight in the first 9 months of 2024.
The animal welfare charity said that between January and September 2024 its emergency cruelty line recorded 48,814 incidents of neglect, up from 38,977 for the same period in 2023 – a worrying 25% year-on-year increase.
On the Isle of Wight, 106 incidents of animal neglect were reported from January to September this year.
The distressing new statistics – which are broken down for each county – have been released as part of the charity’s campaign Join the Christmas Rescue, which aims to support frontline staff as they continue their life-saving work during the busy festive period.
The RSPCA, which this year celebrates its 200th anniversary, believes these shocking statistics are due to an increase in pet ownership during COVID-19 and the current financial hardships faced by many.
2 of the many animals rescued from neglect include cats Ella and Dilly who were rescued from a multi-cat household on the Isle of Wight. These beauties are 6 years-old and were found in poor condition – both were underweight and had suffered hair loss.
Despite what they’ve been through both girls have remained trusting and love nothing more than being around their carers, lapping up attention at the Isle of Wight RSPCA branch.
Ella and Dilly would need a little support in gaining weight and growing their fur back. They could live with another friendly cat that matches their temperament and could live with children pending introductions. You can find out more about them here.
RSPCA Superintendent Jo Hirst said:
“The large 25% increase in the number of pet neglect calls we are taking is a major concern during our busy winter period when many people are facing more financial difficulties, and we fear this upsetting trend will continue.
“One call every four minutes is a frightening statistic. Coupled with this we have also seen a startling increase in abandonment cases up 30% in just three years.
“Sadly we expect the crisis to worsen as more people tend to struggle with increased costs around Christmas time with presents to buy and extra food shopping – along with energy bills.
“But we can make a difference, which is why we are asking the public to support our appeal, Join The Christmas Rescue, and help our rescuers, veterinary teams, branches and centre staff, who work tirelessly to give animals the urgent treatment and love that will save their lives.”
Jo added:
“To help more neglected animals we must work together to make it a happy Christmas for every kind. We’re calling on everyone who believes that no animal should be left to suffer this Christmas to donate to our appeal today.”
To help the RSPCA rescue more animals visit rspca.org.uk/winterappeal
There are too many persons who are
allowed to own animals who neglect them.
Persons situations change and they do not
put measures in place for the animals
they neglect.
(Shameful).
I will only donate if charities stop doing weekly lotteries. I donate to help the animals not line people’s pockets .
Do the national lottery if you want to do a lottery.
If they have enough overflow money to run lotteries then they shouldn’t be begging for an urgent appeal for donations. Just doesn’t make sense.