Rescuers in Dorset have dealt with nine animal cruelty or suffering incidents a day on average since the start of the lockdown.

The RSPCA has released the figures as part of its emergency appeal, launched to keep its teams out on the road during the coronavirus crisis and ensure they can continue to rescue animals most in need.

Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by the Government but vital funding is needed to help frontline staff continue this crucial work.

In the month since the start of the lockdown on March 23, the charity has dealt with 21,137 animal incidents in England and Wales - an average of 660 a day, or 27 an hour. In Dorset, there has been 268 incidents.

Some of the animals given a helping hand by the charity’s animal rescuers in the county since the crisis began are some ducklings.

Gaynor Cannings, deputy manager of RSPCA Ashley Heath centre, said: “In the last four days we have had three groups of ducklings brought into the rescue centre from RSPCA officers and all from the same area. They have all been trying to cross the A338 (Wessex Way) in Bournemouth and sadly were found without a parent.

“There were 11 ducklings in the group with 12 ducklings in each of the last two groups. They have all now been transferred to RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre where they will be cared for before being released back where they belong.”

Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer, said: “Despite the lockdown, there are still thousands of animals which need our help.

“The coronavirus crisis hasn't put a stop to animal suffering and these figures show there are still many animals out there that need rescuing."

He added: “We know that this is a difficult time for everyone but we must still be here for animals who are suffering and we are appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”

As well as operating an emergency service, rescuing animals in need, RSPCA officers have also been collecting animals from the homes of people who have been admitted to hospital with Covid-19, who may not have anyone else to care for them.

RSPCA Animal Hospital teams are carrying out lifesaving operations and giving emergency treatment to animals most in need.

To help the RSPCA visit www.rspca.org.uk/covid