The RSPCA WA has revealed the local government areas which generated the most animal cruelty reports last year.
The figures come from the analysis of 6620 reports of animal cruelty received in 2020, which also indicated the type of offences most commonly reported through the charity's 24-hour Cruelty Hotline.
PIC: RSCPA WA Inspector Kylie with rescued puppy.
Metro and regional ranking by number of reports:
Note: Many of the reports received by RSPCA WA in 2020 included allegations of multiple offences involving multiple.
Overall, complaints dropped from 7022 in 2019 to last years number of 6620.
PIC: RSPCA rescued dog.
RSPCA CEO Ben Cave said while any decline in cruelty reporting was a positive and welcome sign, it was disappointing to see reports of ill-treatment remain steady (1% increase) and reports about dogs in hot cars jump 14%, compared to 2019.
In total, 10,271 offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 were reported last year.
“Looking at these numbers, it can be easy to feel disheartened, but it’s important to remember that every cruelty report received is a person speaking up and being a voice for animals,” he said.
“Our animals rely on us for everything, so it’s really disappointing to see that so many animals continue to be deprived of the basics, such as food, water, shelter and vet care.
“In these hotspots where we know cruelty is prevalent, RSPCA WA works hard to improve standards of animal welfare, but we’re still getting a consistently high number of calls.
“These figures clearly demonstrate a need for further education. If you’re struggling to care for your pet, there are always options available – ignoring their suffering is never OK."
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