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RSPCA Cymru’s emergency line received more than 100 calls about animal cruelty in Caerphilly County Borough last summer.

In total, 118 calls were received from Caerphilly County Borough during June, July and August 2024 – up from 104 during the same period in 2023.

Across Wales, 1,884 calls were made to the charity last summer – an increase of 4% from 2023’s figures, where 1,807 calls were made.

This also follows 1,701 reports in 2022 and 1,699 in 2021 – showing a “shocking rise” over the past few years.

Across the calendar year, There were 6,391 animal cruelty reports across Wales in 2024 – up from 5,870 during the whole of 2023.

RSPCA Cymru released the figures on Tuesday July 1 to mark the start of its Summer Cruelty Campaign.

RSPCA chief inspector Ian Briggs, an expert in cruelty cases, said: “We are seeing a shocking rise in the number of seasonal calls reporting animal cruelty to our emergency line. Sadly the summer months tend to be when these reports peak.

“We don’t know for sure why cruelty peaks at this time of year, but the surge in pet ownership during the pandemic has played a factor, while the longer days mean more people may witness and report such violence.”

He continued: “This year, sadly, we fear the trend will continue and we are busier than ever rescuing animals from many awful situations.

“Many are broken by violence – not just physically but mentally – and our dedicated network of branches, animal centres and rescue teams work wonders in nursing them back to health and showing them how love can help transform their lives.”

Visit the RSPCA’s website for more information about its Summer Cruelty Campaign, or to make a donation.