MORE than 530 reports of animal neglect were made to the RSPCA in 10 months shocking new figures have revealed.

The RSPCA said it received a total of 537 reports about neglected animals between January and October this year.

Nationally, a neglected animal is reported to the RSPCA every five minutes with a total of 46,360 reports made up to the end of October.

Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “Thousands of animals' lives are hanging in the balance this Christmas with animal neglect reports a real cause for concern - including in Dorset.

“Across England and Wales, our emergency line is getting a call about a neglected animal every 288 seconds. Combine those levels of neglect with rising abandonments, the cost of living crisis, and the cold weather this winter, and we fear this could be a very bleak time for animals.

“But there is hope. Our frontline officers work tirelessly to bring neglected animals to safety - and it's the kind-hearted public who power these rescue efforts.“

Among the rescued animals looking for a new home is Bruno the boxer.

Bruno is currently being looked after by the team at the RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre.

The 10-year-old boxer was neglected by his previous owner and was found with another dog.

Both were emaciated and needed veterinary treatment.

Bruno has since recovered and is seeking a retirement home in an adult only household.

The statistics have been released as part of the charity's Join the Christmas Rescue campaign which aims to support its frontline staff ahead of what could be a "bleak” winter season for pets and other animals.

Dermot added: “This winter, our rescue teams are set to be very busy trying to help and reach so many neglected animals - which is why we need animal lovers to join the Christmas rescue now more than ever, and donate to help us be there for neglected animals in their time of need."