The RSPCA is celebrating 200 years – and has an appeal for Cornwall

The RSPCA is celebrating its 200th birthday in what turned out to be the busiest week of last year.

He also launched an appeal to encourage Cornish residents to join the animal welfare movement – which is now a million strong.

In its birthday week last year, which runs from June 12 to 18, the RSPCA responded to 31,947 calls to its emergency line in England and Wales.

In the same week, they also dealt with 5,573 incidents of animal cruelty, neglect or abuse.

Of these, 63 of them were specifically located in Cornwall, where a total of 2,944 separate incidents were handled by the charity during 2023.

And 2024 has already been incredibly busy for RSPCA officers – with 330,415 calls from across England and Wales received by the charity’s emergency line (up to 27 May) just before the busiest summer months begin; and rescuers dealing with 116,512 incidents of concern.

The RSPCA launched an appeal for information in April this year after a cat suffered fatal injuries after being caught in a trap in Saltash, Cornwall.

RSPCA Inspector Jim Farr said: “There are strict legal requirements for setting certain types of traps and if they are not set correctly, non-target animals such as this cat can be injured or even killed.

“This was a heartbreaking result for this cat, but it serves as a very important reminder of why it is essential that traps are set and properly checked if they are to be used.

“We want to see a world where everyone is kind and compassionate to every animal, and where indiscriminate tools like these are a thing of the past.”

(Image: RSPCA)

The RSPCA is on high alert as it anticipates another busy period this year.

RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood added: “Our dedicated rescue teams are so busy on the frontline for animals and as we celebrate our landmark 200th anniversary this week, we expect to be as busy as ever.

“To continue to create a better world for every animal, we need more people to take action.

“That’s why, in our 200th year, we want a million people to join our movement – ​​and share our vision for every kind.”

(Image: RSPCA)

The charity was originally founded as the SPCA on June 16, two centuries ago, by a London vicar, Arthur Broome, along with 22 other founder members.

In 1840, Queen Victoria granted the society permission to add “Royal” to its name.

HRH King Charles III was recently named the charity’s new patron.

The RSPCA believes in the power of public awareness and education to combat the multitude of new challenges facing animals today.

In light of this, they have launched a new tool on their website aimed at speeding up public aid for animals in need.

Mr Sherwood added: “Whether it’s taking animals to the vet, online advice or contacting our rescuers to respond to cruelty and neglect, we can all do our bit for animals.

“Because a world that’s better for animals is better for all of us.”

For more information on joining the RSPCA, visit www.rspca.org.uk/200.