Star Comment: Let’s help RSPCA to find justice
We like to think of ourselves as being a nation of animal lovers. We dote on our pets, donate money to animal welfare charities, leave an extra packet of food for collectors at local supermarkets and support charity flag days. At least that’s how the majority of well-thinking people behave.
Regrettably, however, that image is not true for all. For the picture of Britain as a country that puts animals first isn’t strictly true. New figures from the RSPCA suggest a darker side, they portray a section of society that abuses and is habitually cruel to animals.
An increase by 10 per cent in reported cases is cause for concern. Inspectors are called to four new complaints every day – a total of 1,400 per year. And the figures relate not to some distant conurbation or city, but to here in Shropshire. People in our towns, villages and rural areas are treating animals with disdain each and every day. The figures for Mid Wales have risen too.
It is difficult to imagine the terror that defenceless animals feel when they are subjected to cruelty. They are dependent on us for their most basic needs of food, drink and shelter. And when the hand that feeds also neglects, abuses or harms, it must cause unimaginable distress.
The cases that the RSPCA is called to deal with cause shock and outrage. It is difficult for many people to understand how humans can be capable of brutality and cruelty to animals. And yet it seems such behaviours have existed for many years. The increased number of RSPCA cases may, in fact, simply be because more people are now reporting them.
If that is true, it is good news that people are less tolerant, less willing to turn a blind eye. It suggests we are becoming increasingly aware and are no longer prepared to put up with the casual cruelty of those who should be put before the courts.
And perhaps we could learn a lesson from that. Just as we are encouraged by the police to report criminal behaviour, so we should do so when animals are violated and abused. The RSPCA is quite right to make sure those who are cruel to animals do not escape justice.
Their work is extremely important and their work to bring anybody committing cruelty to justice should be supported by all.
