New figures released by RSPCA Northamptonshire show the number of people convicted for animal cruelty in the county has risen sharply.
The RSPCA Prosecutions Annual Report, launched during RSPCA week, shows there was a 50 per cent increase in the number of people convicted for animal cruelty between 2011 and 2012.
The survey shows 21 people were convicted for animal neglect and cruelty in Northamptonshire in 2012, while only 14 were convicted in 2011.
The figures match the national trend where convictions rose by nearly 34 per cent in 2012 across England and Wales.
RSPCA chief executive, Gavin Grant, said: “The RSPCA is leading the fight against a growing animal cruelty crisis.
“Our staff, volunteers and branches show tremendous dedication but they are struggling to keep up.
“For us, prosecution is always the last resort. However if there is evidence of a crime and serious animal abuse then we will take legal action to protect the animals and prevent further abuse.
“We also want to see judges taking these offences far more seriously.”
He added: “More animals need our help than ever before and I urge everyone to dig deep and give us as much support as you can – hold a fundraising event during RSPCA Week, volunteer for us, or if you are able, please give a new home to an abandoned or abused animal.
“Now more than ever we need all animal lovers to stand up against a rising tide of animal cruelty. We can’t do it without you.”
One such case in Northamptonsire saw a man sent to prison and banned from keeping animals for five years. The 28-year-old from Kettering was convicted in his absence at Kettering Magistrates’ Court of causing unnecessary suffering to 11 rabbits, of which seven later died.
He was sentenced to eight weeks custody concurrent for both offences and disqualified from keeping all animals for five years.