New data from the RSPCA shows that cruelty towards dogs increased by 6% in London last year.

In 2022, there were 3,752 reports made to RSPCA in the area about cruelty to dogs, compared with 3,536 in 2021.

These figures include reports made about intentional harm, neglect and abandonments.

The type of incidents that come under intentional harm are attempted killing, poisoning, beating, improper killing, mutilation and suspicious circumstances.

There were 994 reports of intentional harm to dogs in London and cases of cruelty can increase in the summer months, so the charity is braced for its busiest time of the year.

Violet (Photo Credit: RSPCA).

Dermot Murphy, RSCPA inspectorate commissioner, said: "Right now, animal cruelty is happening in England and Wales on a massive scale and rising. It is heartbreaking that we are seeing such sad figures which show animal cruelty is, very sadly, on the rise.

 "While we don't know for certain why there has been an increase, the cost of living crisis and the post-pandemic world we live in has created an animal welfare crisis.

 "Each year, these reports reach its terrible annual peak in the summer months – when an animal is beaten on average every hour of every day. The cost-of-living crisis also means the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high and our vital services are stretched to the limit."

The figures, released by the RSPCA also shows that in 2022 there was a 22% increase in reports of beatings, peaking in August when 1,081 reports were received.

Furthermore, the number of animals killed in 'suspicious circumstances' increased in 2022 by 15% from 2021.

Case Study:

The RSPCA launched an appeal for information after a dog was found dead in a canal with weights around her neck.

The dog, an English bull terrier named Sky, was removed from a canal in Greenford, West London, with two barbell weights tied around her neck.

Case Study - bull terrier found dead in canal (Photo Credit: RSPCA).

RSPCA inspector Dale Grant said: "We don't know if she was dead prior to being thrown in the canal.

"She was microchipped, to an address in Wales, and her previous owners confirmed they sold her to a man in Southall. 

"We spoke to the new owner who stated he gave her away before Christmas but was unable to give further details. 

"She was only young, under two, and by all accounts a lovable family pet."

Cancel out Cruelty:

The charity has released these figures as part of its 'Cancel out Cruelty' campaign, in a bid to raise funds to help its frontline rescue team to save animals.

Clare Dew, one of the RSPCA's Chief inspectors for London, said: "For hundreds of years dogs have been known as man's best friend - and if you share your home with one, you will know why, as they are such loyal and loving companions.

 "But these awful statistics tell a different story. Dogs are the most abused animal in this country and we investigate more complaints about them than any other type of animal.

 "Everyone who cares about animals will be sickened to know how many reports we receive about dogs being kicked, beaten, burned or worse. We need the public's help to Cancel Out Cruelty. Their donations, no matter how small, help keep our frontline officers out on the road rescuing animals and investigating these terrible reports."

As the only charity in England and Wales investigating cruelty and rescuing animals, the RSPCA needs support to stay out on the frontline:

• £2 could help to provide a meal for a cat or dog in our care
• £6 could help pay to feed a dog for a day in our care
• £10 could help pay towards bandages for a cat or dog
• £15 could help pay for a cat or dog's clinical exam
• £20 could help pay towards a bird catching kit
• £30 could help pay for a life jacket for an inspector
• £100 could help pay towards water rescue equipment
• £500 could kit out a 4x4 inspector van

To help support the RSPCA visit: http://www.rspca.org.uk/cruelty