Animal cruelty reports surged by 33% across England and Wales during the summer of 2024, according to exclusive figures shared by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). The charity recorded 34,401 reports between June and August—up from 25,887 during the same period in 2023.
The RSPCA attributes the rise to increased outdoor activity during longer summer days, leading to greater public exposure to incidents of cruelty. On average, the organization received 374 reports per day during the summer months. Total cruelty reports for 2024 reached 105,250, marking a 19% year-on-year increase.
Shocking Case Highlights Severity of Abuse
One of the most disturbing cases involved Bernie, a young rescue dog from Nottingham. Found at 11 months old with multiple fractures, bruising, and trauma, Bernie had endured sustained physical abuse from his previous owner. X-rays revealed repeated rib fractures and facial injuries, consistent with being violently beaten over a prolonged period.
The offender was prosecuted by the RSPCA, banned from owning animals for life, and handed a 12-week suspended sentence with community service and fines.
Bernie was later adopted by Amanda Hunt and her family, who described his transformation into a loving, loyal companion despite his early trauma. “He’s like my little shadow,” said Amanda.
Pandemic Fallout and Rising Neglect
Cara Gibbon, the RSPCA officer who helped rescue Bernie, linked the overall rise in cruelty reports to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. “People got pets during lockdown, but many now find themselves unprepared as life returns to normal,” she said, noting higher abandonment and neglect rates.
Dr Rowena Packer from the Royal Veterinary College echoed this concern. Her research shows dogs bought during the pandemic display more behavioral issues, often worsened by untrained owners relying on harmful advice from social media. She urges struggling pet owners to reach out to free behavioral support services offered by major animal welfare charities.
Government Response
A spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs reaffirmed the government’s commitment to animal welfare, stating: “All cases of animal cruelty are unacceptable and should be thoroughly investigated. Offenders face up to five years in prison and unlimited fines.”
RSPCA chief inspector Ian Briggs concluded: “Summer should be a joyful time for animals, but for thousands, it becomes a season of pain, fear, and suffering.”
