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‘It’s Heartbreaking’: Dog Cruelty On Rise On Isle Of Wight

Cruelty to dogs increased on the Isle of Wight in 2023, shocking figures from the RSPCA shows.

Last year, the RSPCA received 124 reports about cruelty to dogs in the county, compared to 109 in 2022.

Nationally, in 2023, the RSPCA received 52,662 reports about cruelty to dogs - around 144 a day - compared to 48,567 in 2022 - an increase of 8% in just one year. 

The charity received 42,613 reports on cruelty to dogs in 2020, marking a 23% increase in just four years. In 2021, the number of reports was 44,479 - meaning the figures have been rising year-on-year.

The new figures have been released by the RSPCA as part of its No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal.

“It is heartbreaking that more dogs need our help - we need to make a stand against this and say ‘no more’,” said Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive of the RSPCA.

“Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend, yet more and more dogs are being subjected to cruelty every year.

"Dogs are the most popular pet in the UK yet also the ones who potentially suffer the most."

If you suspect an animal is being cruelly treated, you can find out how to report this on the RSPCA’s website. Before contacting the RSPCA to make a report, be sure you have the following information to hand:

  • Your name, address and telephone number

  • The date, time and location/address of the incident - you can use what3words for a precise location

  • A description of the animal's environment and body condition

  • If known, the name and address of the person involved

  • Names and addresses of any witnesses

  • The registration number and description of any vehicle involved.

All reports made to the RSPCA are made in confidence.

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