Cruelty puts RSPCA at breaking point

THE RSPCA has admitted it is at breaking point over an unprecedented rise in animal cruelty.

The number of people convicted for cruelty and neglect to animals rose by nearly a quarter in England and Wales last year, according to figures released by the animal charity today.

Last year in Greater Manchester 58 people were reported for cruelty, with convictions in 29 cases.

Nationally 3,036 people were reported, with 1,341 convictions.

Ahead of the charity’s major fundraising push, RSPCA Week, chief executive Gavin Grant said: “The RSPCA faces a crisis that is stretching us to breaking point.

“We show zero tolerance to animal abusers. Anyone causing animals pain for profit or pleasure will be tracked down and prosecuted.”

As well as a rise in convictions, bans on keeping animals also increased in 2011, as did the number of prison sentences.

RSPCA Week 2012 runs from April 30 to May 6. To find out how to get involved visit www.rspcaweek.org