The RSPCA has warned of a steep increase in animal beatings in Lincolnshire, with reports rising by as much as 76%.
New figures show 311 allegations of animal beatings were made in the county during the summer of 2024 — a 76% rise compared to 2020. Nationally, reports have more than doubled, with a 105% increase.
A spokesperson for the charity said one report of abuse is made every 15 minutes while its call line is open.
The figures form part of the RSPCA’s Summer Cruelty Campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the growing problem.
Ian Briggs, Head of SOU at the RSPCA, said: “These are really distressing and stark figures. One report of an animal being beaten every half an hour is a horrible thought, but sadly this is the reality in summer when our cruelty line receives a beating report every 30 minutes.
“It isn’t clear why there has been such a dramatic increase in abuse against animals, but what is clear is that animals are suffering at the hands of people on a much bigger scale than many people realise.
“This is why our Summer Cruelty Campaign is so important to highlight that for thousands of animals, summer is a season of pain and suffering when cruelty peaks. As the RSPCA braces to help tackle animal cruelty, we need your help now more than ever to continue to rescue animals in desperate need of care.”
Reporter.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2021.