THE RSPCA has received nearly 30 reports of abandoned animals in Dorset since lockdown started on 23 March and has launched an emergency appeal to rescue animals in need.

The charity has received over 1,600 reports of abandoned animals across England and Wales since the lockdown began - roughly 40 a day.

These figures have been released as part of the charity's emergency appeal to keep its rescue teams out on the road during the coronavirus crisis and continuing to rescue animals most in need of help.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA rescue teams, said: “Although much of the country is on lockdown, sadly there are still thousands of animals who need our help, including abandoned pets.

“Many people are finding their pets are a real source of comfort in these anxious times and thankfully cases of abandonment are slightly lower than usual but it’s heartbreaking that some animals are being dumped during this crisis.

“In most cases we don’t know why pets are abandoned but it’s really important to remind people that there is no evidence to suggest that Covid-19 can be passed from pets to people.

“There is lots of help and support out there for anyone else struggling to get animal food, with health or behavioural issues, exercising their pets or managing to keep children safe around pets. Please don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Since the Government introduced the lockdown measures, the RSPCA has responded to more than 27,000 incidents.

The number of animals being cared for by the RSPCA at centres, hospitals and vet surgeries has grown massively, and there are now more than 4,300 animals in the charity's care which is likely to rise as the RSPCA is not rehoming animals during the crisis.

The charity is also urging pet-owners to make an emergency pet-care plan should they be admitted to hospital with COVID-19, including placing a poster in the window informing people that there are pets inside.

For more advice on caring for pets amid the coronavirus outbreak or to donate to the charity, visit the RSPCA website.