DOG welfare reports have hit a three-year high in Somerset, according to the RSPCA.

Almost 900 incidents have been reported to the charity this year.

The figures, revealing a 6.5 per cent increase in dog welfare complaints from 2020 to 2023, mark the largest growth for any animal welfare reports in the county.

RSPCA received a total of 1,889 animal welfare reports in Somerset this year, including 900 about dogs.

The charity urges people to enter the Omaze Somerset House Draw, promising a chance to win a house in the county's north east while providing crucial financial support to the charity's frontline work.

Inspectorate commissioner for the RSPCA, Dermot Murphy, said: "We need your help now more than ever as shocking figures show that dog welfare reports have hit a three-year peak in Somerset.

"Nationally, we’ve also seen neglect and abandonment reports reach a three-year high which is also incredibly concerning.

"The combined effects of the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis has created a perfect storm - and means we expect more animals than ever will need our help this year.

"Behind these statistics are thousands of vulnerable animals just like these five huskies we rescued from a life of neglect."

Somerset County Gazette: The figures mark the largest growth for any animal welfare reports in the county

Three adults and two puppies were found living in abject conditions, confined to a urine-stained hallway with no food, water, or bedding.

Two adults, Rex and Susie, were thin, while tests indicated the puppies, Bella and Annie, together with Rex and another dog, Rosie, bore signs of permanent kidney damage, resulting from dehydration.

Thanks to the RSPCA's intervention and subsequent investigation, these dogs were saved.

They were taken into the charity's care - Rex and Susie to the RSPCA Brent Knoll Branch, Rosie and her puppies to the RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre near Taunton.

After being rehabilitated, they have received new homes where they are enjoying their first Christmas.

Mr Dermot noted: "It’s so heartening to see stories like these where the lives of these dogs have been completely transformed.

"But sadly we know that as many of us prepare for a cosy Christmas with our loved ones and our much-loved pets, there are sadly thousands of animals facing a bleaker reality.

"Abandonments have soared and many rescue centres are full to bursting."

For those interested in making a difference, please visit the RSPCA’s website at: https://www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/win/omaze