AN ALARMING rise in animal cruelty in East Lancashire has been revealed by the RSPCA, in its annual report released this week.

RSPCA inspectors strive to encourage responsible pet ownership, but despite their efforts, cruelty complaints investigated were up by 216 in East Lancashire, from 1,112 in 1996 to 1,328 in 1997.

There was also an increase in animal rescues, from 387 in 1996, to 450 in 1997. However, animal collections fell slightly from 951 in 1996 to 897 in 1997. Chief Inspector Brian Jeffries covers the East Lancashire region. He said: "The obvious increase in prosecutions is our primary concern.

"It is frustrating when we work so hard to prevent incidents from happening, and then see an increase in the number of animal abuse cases.

"People really should contact us sooner, rather than later, if they can't look after their pet."

Some animals in East Lancashire suffered neglect and horrific abuse at the hands of cruel and irresponsible owners in 1997.

In Darwen, a man broke the jaw of a 12-week-old boxer puppy by hitting it in the face.

He was convicted of causing the puppy unnecessary suffering and was banned from keeping any animal for two years, fined £200, and ordered to pay £300 costs.

In Blackburn a man neglected his dog's flea allergy. He was conditionally discharged for two years, ordered to pay £250 costs, and banned from keeping all animals for three years.

Bernard Divine, the RSPCA's regional manager for the North West, said: "While public donations allow us to bring the perpetrators of cruelty to justice, it's the many animals who suffer at the hands of cruel owners who pay the ultimate price.

"Looking after an animal involves care, cost and commitment. People should not take on pets if these essential requirements cannot be met."

The RSPCA's cruelty statistics have been released during RSPCA Week, which runs until Sunday.

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