'Shocking' Rise In Deliberate Cruelty To Animals

Deliberate cruelty to animals is on the increase in Britain, according to figures released by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The animal welfare charity investigated 159,831 complaints in 2014, compared to 153,770 in 2013.

One in eight complaints involved claims of deliberate and often violent cruelty to animals.

But despite the increase in reported cases of animal abuse, there were fewer prosecutions and convictions recorded last year.

The RSPCA says this shows more people are receiving advice from the charity's inspectors, thereby stopping cruelty at the earliest stages.

In 2014, some 82,746 people were offered advice as an alternative to other action. That figure rose from 76,810 in 2013.

Among the worst cases of animal abuse reported by the charity include a Staffordshire bull terrier puppy in Cumbria which was thrown, kicked and had its head trapped in a door.

Another dog named Ziggy was found shot in the head with a 20-inch crossbow bolt near Peterborough.

RSPCA chief veterinary officer James Yeates said: "It is extremely concerned that we are still receiving more than 20,000 complaints about animals being deliberately caused to suffer.

"Most of the complaints we receive involved animals being neglected or not receiving the right care and often we can put that right by offering welfare advice.

"However it is shocking that in 2014 people are still being deliberately cruel in what can be disturbingly inventive ways."

The most likely animal to be abused is the domestic dog.

British Bulldog Nana was rescued from a car last June. Authorities estimate the animal had been trapped in the vehicle for up to three months.

The RSPCA rehabilitated the pet. Her new owner Siri Finnestad said: "I can't believe that anyone would do something that cruel intentionally."

She added that Nana has quickly become a welcome addition to the home.

"It only took about two days really before it looked like she's been here her entire life. We feel like she's part of the family."