Animal cruelty on the decrease

There were 1,819 cases reported in 2014, compared in 1,830 12 months earlier.

This is contrast to the national trend, where there has been a four per cent increase in cases of animal cruelty over the last year.

John Grant, RSPCA superintendent for the South West, said: “It is extremely concerning that we are still receiving so many complaints about animals being deliberately caused to suffer.

“Most of the complaints we receive involve animals being neglected or not receiving the right care and often we can put that right by offering welfare advice.

“However, it is shocking that in 2014 people are still being deliberately cruel in what can be disturbingly inventive ways.”