The RSPCA has released figures as part of our its emergency appeal, launched to keep its rescue teams out on the road during the COVID-19 crisis, continuing to rescue animals most in need.

Since the Government announced the lockdown on Monday, March 23, the RSPCA said it had:

• Dealt with 21,137 incidents of animal cruelty and suffering animals which need help;
• Received more than 66,000 calls from members of the public; and
• Had 4,200 animals in its care; and
• Rescued more than 1,274 abandoned animals in need.

Dermot Murphy, chief inspectorate officer at the RSPCA, said: “Despite the lockdown, there are still thousands of animals which need our help. As designated key workers, our frontline rescuers are still out and about rescuing animals in urgent need of care.

“The COVID-19 crisis hasn’t put a stop to animal suffering and these figures show there are still many animals out there that need rescuing.

“Our rescuers have dealt with over 21,000 incidents in the last three weeks, an average of 660 a day and there are many more animals who need our help. However, our resources are under huge strain and vital funding is needed to keep our rescue teams out on the road.”

Mr Murphy added: “We know that this is a difficult time for everyone but we must still be here for animals who are suffering and so we’re appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”