The number of reported cases of dog cruelty in Cumbria has increased.

The RSPCA received 550 reports of dog cruelty in the county last year, an increase from 510 in 2022.

Nationally, the charity received 52,662 reports of dog cruelty in 2023, an increase of eight per cent from 48,567 in 2022.

The figures were released by the RSPCA as part of its No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal.

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: "It is heartbreaking that more dogs need our help - we need to make a stand against this and say 'no more'.

(Image: RSPCA)

"Dogs are supposed to be man's best friend, yet more and more dogs are being subjected to cruelty every year.

"Dogs are the most popular pet in the UK yet also the ones who potentially suffer the most.

“We would love to see, next year, cruelty going down. We know we can’t do this alone - so our purpose is for everyone to work together to create a kinder world for animals.

"That's why we've launched our summer appeal, because it’s vital that we all take action together to help animals like these dogs.”

One of the dogs rescued by the RSPCA is Chihuahua Dolly, who was subjected to deliberate cruelty in Yorkshire.

Dolly was left with severe injuries including a broken rib, a fracture to her third vertebrae indicative of a tail pull injury, and a dislocated tail.

Her owner pleaded guilty and was banned from keeping animals for life.

(Image: RSPCA)

Today, Dolly lives happily with her new owner, Lucy Green, an RSPCA inspector.

Ms Green said: "At first she was very nervous about certain things such as any loud noises or sudden movements.

"There were times where someone shouts on the TV or loud music might have come on during an advert and she would stop what she was doing and shake, lower her head and tuck her tail up under herself."

Dolly's case was investigated by former RSPCA inspector Alice Cooper.

She said: “It was heartbreaking to think of what Dolly had suffered, and I was determined to get justice for Dolly and hopefully prevent any other animals from suffering at the hands of her owner.

“I saw her multiple times throughout her recovery, and she always enjoyed a cuddle. It’s like she finally knew she was safe.

"I will be forever thankful to everyone who helped piece this broken little dog back together again."