RSPCA deals with almost 2,000 incidents in the West Country since coronavirus lockdown

The RSPCA has dealt with almost 2,000 incidents across the West Country since the start of the coronavirus lockdown.

The animal welfare charity has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to help it continue rescuing and caring for animals suffering cruelty and neglect.

Since March 23, when the Government announced the lockdown, there have 1982 incidents in the West Country alone, with 566 in Devon and 492 in Cornwall. More than 21,000 have been recorded nationally.

A frightened fox cub is released from netting Credit: RSPCA

In Plymouth a tiny tawny owl was found alone at the side of a road. It was released after receiving treatment. Credit: RSPCA

Lockdown restrictions have ceased all charity fundraising events which are a crucial source of funding for the RSPCA.

RSPCA officers have also been collecting and looking after animals from the homes of people who have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19. Credit: RSPCA

During the lockdown RSPCA officers have been collecting and looking after animals from the homes of people who have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19.

The charity is urging pet owners to make an emergency care plan in case they are admitted to hospital with coronavirus. That includes placing a poster in the window informing people there are pets inside.

The stats below are from the start of lockdown on March 23: