We're celebrating news that over 50 per cent of eggs are cage-free.
06.02.12
Latest figures released by Defra show that over half of Class A eggs were laid by hens which were not cooped-up in cruel cages.
In 1995 about 86 per cent of eggs were laid by caged hens and only about 14 per cent were from barn, free-range and organic systems.
In contrast in 2011 49 per cent of eggs were laid by hens kept in cages and 51 per cent were produced in cage-free systems.
Alice Clark a senior scientist from our farm animals team said:
It is really great news that for the first time more than half the eggs produced in the UK were laid by hens kept in barn, free-range or organic systems.
Every time a shopper buys a box of Freedom Food, barn, free-range or organic eggs, they are sending a strong message that they care about animal welfare and don’t want hens kept in cages.
Better news for laying hens
We believe that the growth in non-cage production is due to:
Compulsory egg labelling introduced in 2004 so boxes of whole eggs have to be labelled with the method of production such as ‘eggs from caged hens’ or ‘free-range’.
Increased public awareness and concern about the suffering of hens kept in cages.
Some major supermarkets no longer stocking cage eggs and using cage-free eggs as ingredients in their own-brand products.
Some major food manufacturers and restaurant chains switching to cage-free eggs in their products.
Alice Clark added:
Things are certainly getting better and hopefully one day cages will be a thing of the past altogether. Shoppers who buy cage-free eggs deserve a heartfelt thank you. And if they want to do more they can make sure food they buy such as ready-meals, cakes and ice-cream also contains cage-free eggs.
We do not believe hens should be kept in cages – even newer style so-called ‘enriched’ battery cages which are replacing the conventional barren battery cages.
Recent research commissioned by us revealed 61 per cent of people in England and Wales agreed that cages should be banned.
Rescue dog in need of new home is flourishing at agility
03.02.12
An RSPCA rescue dog who is learning agility to relieve the boredom of an eight-month spell in kennels is hoping his new found skills will help him weave his way into someone's heart.
Kai is a two-year-old American bulldog cross-breed and has taken to agility like a duck to water.
He is completing the weaves and jumps with ease at our Gonsal Farm Animal Centre in Dorrington, Shropshire.
And despite only having a few lessons, Kai is said to have great potential.
Watch Kai practising the weaves:
Kai 'has such a desire to please and learn'
Anthony Turner works at Gonsal Farm, as well as being a dog trainer with School For Paws - a Victoria Stilwell Positively approved dog training establishment based in Shropshire.
He said:
Kai has a lovely, friendly nature and loves nothing more than to play.
He really enjoys human company and has such a desire to please and learn, so I thought I would give him some agility training.
He has taken to it so well that we hope any new owner might continue taking him to classes as he really is a natural.
Kai a hit with TV dog trainer Victoria Stilwell!
And Kai definitely impressed TV dog trainer Victoria Stilwell who visited our Gonsal Farm Animal Centre just before Christmas.
Following her visit, Victoria spoke very highly about the staff at Gonsal Farm and the fantastic work they do in rehabilitating animals so that they're ready for rehoming.
So why is he being overlooked?
Anthony continued:
"Kai has been in kennels since June 2011 and we have no idea why he is still with us.
"He is only young and obviously is a lively lad, but he gets on with other dogs and can be rehomed to a family with older children.
"We are hoping someone will see Kai basking in the limelight at his agility classes and offer him a 'forever' home."
Are you Kai's perfect match?
If you think you're a perfect match for Kai and can offer him a loving new home and continue the agility training that he loves so much, please contact:
Our Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Cheshire is caring for nine birds of prey which have been bred and raised as pets and then thought to have been dumped.
The birds were each taken to the wildlife centre near Nantwich after being found individually in an injured, sick or lethargic condition.
The nine birds include:
three barn owls
two Harris hawks
two buzzards
a lanner falcon
and an eagle owl.
They have all been bred as domestic pets and either been abandoned by their owners or escaped.
This means they cannot be released back into the wild. Had they not been rescued, it's very likely they would have died.
The birds have very specialist needs which makes finding suitable new homes very difficult.
Birds so lucky to have been rescued
Lee Stewart, centre manager, said:
All the birds were struggling to survive.
One of the buzzards had lost all balance and kept falling on its face.
One of the barn owls had flown straight into a car.
And the eagle owl was discovered in the middle of a path with its wing hanging down.
Keeping birds of prey as pets
We are urging people to do their research before taking on these types of birds as pets.
All too often animals end up abandoned when people realise the care required is more than they can manage.
Animals that have been bred in captivity can struggle to adapt if they suddenly find themselves having to fend for themselves in the wild.
Birds of prey can have a large wing span and flying is a fundamental natural behaviour. So aviaries should be built with enough space for the bird in its adult size to fly.
They also need:
free flying time out of the enclosure
suitable food
to be taken to a specialist avian vet.
Legally, they can only be kept as pets if they are captive-bred. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to take any wild bird and put it into captivity.
Some birds of prey also need to be registered if kept in captivity.
And we recommend that anyone owning a bird of prey get their bird ringed so that should the bird escape, it can be traced back to the owner.
Taking on any animal is a lifetime commitment
Sophie Adwick, RSPCA exotics and trade officer, said:
It is vital that anyone taking on an animal thinks very carefully about whether they will be able to care for the animal properly for all of its life.
Too many people buy on a whim without really doing any research into what the animal eats, how big it will grow, and how difficult it might be to keep it in a home.
This can lead to a raft of welfare problems, as well as abandonments.
Exotic pets - what to consider
When unusual animals, like birds of prey, are kept as pets they are known as exotics or non-domestic animals.
Get more advice about meeting the needs of exotic pets.
With temperatures set to remain low this weekend, we're urging people to help care for pets and wildlife.
With snow predicted for some parts of the country we're urging the public to do their bit to help keep animals of all kinds happy and healthy. RSPCA Inspector Tony Woodley said:
Winter weather can spell trouble for some animals as they struggle to cope with the conditions as much as we do.
We can all take simple steps to help animals at this time however our inspectors are on-call around the clock so they can help if the worst should happen.
Our tips on how to help animals in the cold weather:
Pets
Dogs with thin or sparse coats may benefit from a coat when being exercised outdoors. Two or three shorter walks may be a better option to avoid being out in the cold for a long period of time.
It's also important to keep dogs away from lakes or ponds which may have iced over to prevent them from falling in.
Horses and ponies will also need constant access to shelter and water as well as extra food and blankets if necessary.
Cats should not be shut out of the house for long periods of time and must always be able to find suitable warmth and shelter.
Pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs may need extra shelter away from the weather and could need moving inside into a shed or garage.
Farm animals
Farm animals will need access to drinking water at all times and possibly extra food during the colder weather.
If it's not possible to bring animals inside, it's important to be extra vigilant to ensure they are not suffering in snow or ice and that they stay away from frozen water which could be a hazard to them.
Wildlife
Birds may have difficulty finding natural foods such as berries, insects, seeds, worms and fruit. Any alternative food you put out during these cold months will help such as crumbled bread, stale cake and biscuits, cheese and cooked rice.
Badgers do not hibernate but they do sleep through much of the severe weather. However, when the ground is frozen they have a tough time finding food. Nibbles such as lightly cooked meats, cheese, unsalted and unsweetened peanuts and fruit will be welcomed.
Squirrels enjoy unsweetened and unsalted nuts including hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds as well as chopped apple, carrots, spinach or green beans.
Hedgehogs hibernate between November and mid to late March so you can help by raking up the leaves in your garden and providing them with nests to rest in.
Helping animals in small ways can make a big difference
RSPCA wildlife scientist Sophie Adwick said:
Winter can be hard for animals, particuarly wildlife, and every year the RSPCA rescues lots of animals which are dehydrated, hungry and cold.
Food and water can be scarce at this time of year anyhow and ground frosts make finding food even more difficult.
There may be many animals out there in need of our help and the more we can do to help them through this chilly period the better. The small things can make all the difference.
If you see an animal in distress, call our 24-hour cruelty line on: 0300 1234 999.
We came to the rescue of an exhausted fallow deer that was fighting for his life after becoming tangled in electric fence tape in Worcestershire.
The stunning animal was found thrashing about in a field last week in Dunley, Stourport-on-Severn.
Bid for freedom leaves deer exhausted
The buck's will to survive was so strong that he had used all his physical strength in a bid for freedom.
But instead the deer became further entangled and faced dying from exhaustion or being strangled by the tape.
Our animal welfare officer, Steve Davies, attended but the situation was too dangerous to attempt a rescue single-handedly.
Fast teamwork saves deer
Vital back up came in the form of Bob Lawrence, director of wildlife at West Midlands Safari Park. Once the deer was sedated the pair worked fast to cut the tape which was attached to a fence post.
It was a wonderful moment to discover the buck wasn't injured. Had he not been found he would have suffered a very slow and agonising death.
Animal welfare officer, Steve said:
There couldn't have been a better outcome to this rescue. But on arrival I thought it really could have gone either way.
The deer was huffing and puffing due to physical exhaustion but the tape was so tightly wrapped around his antlers and more worryingly his neck.
Believed to be around six years old, the deer was later released to a secure location with other wild deer.
Our rescues
Every year we receive hundreds of thousands of calls about animals in need of rescue. Take a look at some of the predicaments we've rescued animals from recently.
If you witness an animal in distress call our national cruelty line on: 0300 1234 999.
Frustration as mallard duck is caused unnecessary distress
31.01.12
Thank you to the many people in Worcester who have reported their concerns about a female mallard duck who has a plastic can holder stuck in her mouth and around the back of her neck.
Despite attempts by RSPCA officers and local swan rescue to capture the distressed bird, she has so far evaded capture as she is still mobile and able to fly.
We are continuing our attempts to try to catch the duck and are planning a boat rescue this week, but there is no guarantee of success.
The duck is often seen on the river near Worcester City Football Club, St George's Lane.
The first reported call came in over a week ago on Thursday, 19 January.
'It is likely she will be having great difficulty in feeding'
RSPCA Chief Inspector Lee Hopgood who has been involved with the rescue attempts so far said:
We are concerned for the welfare of this duck, but from experience we know how difficult she is going to be to catch.
She is very wary of humans and the more attempts are made to catch her, the more wary she becomes.
It looks like she can still drink, but it is likely she will be having great difficulty in feeding.
Sadly it may not be until she starts to deteriorate in condition and strength before we have any real chance of catching her.
Litter can be lethal for animals and yet is entirely preventable
We are extremely frustrated that an act of sheer laziness has resulted in this mallard duck’s unnecessary suffering.
Lee continued:
The most frustrating thing about this whole situation and other similar incidents we have dealt with in the past is that this bird's suffering was entirely preventable.
This poor duck is in this distressing position because someone couldn't be bothered to put their litter in a bin.
A casually dropped piece of litter can have devastating consequences for our wildlife.
We are so fortunate in this country to have so many fascinating species of birds and other wild animals that live in our parks and countryside.
It is a well known pastime for families to take children to feed the ducks and birds in parks, and yet people are so thoughtless and careless about dropping litter which can injure, kill and maim wildlife.
I hope people will learn from this incident and dispose of their rubbish properly.
Litter costs lives
Did you know?
We receive over 7,000 calls each year about litter-related incidents.
We regularly rescue all kinds of animals trapped or injured by litter.
How you can help
Little things such as cutting the loops of plastic can holders before putting into a rubbish or recycling bin can help to prevent incidents like this and save an animal's life.
Find out more ways you can help in our advice page - litter costs lives.
Could you give a Putney Pensioner cat the retirement they deserve?
30.01.12
Staff at Putney Animal Hospital in London are looking for potential adopters to consider giving an older cat a home.
Veterinary nurse Marianne Segev said:
The older animals unfortunately seem to get overlooked. Anyone wanting to rehome a cat usually just looks at the kittens that we have and rarely stop to think about an older cat.
Putney Pensioners scheme
Putney Pensioners was set up by Putney Animal Hospital to quickly find homes for pensioner cats. The scheme also supports adopters by paying for any age-related treatment required throughout their pet’s lifetime.
All our hospital asks for in return is that you provide a loving home and routine treatment including vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and any special dietary requirements.
Pensioner cats make wonderful pets
Two years ago 10-year-old Maverick was found with his leg caught in a sash window. He wasn’t microchipped and despite efforts to track down his owners, no-one came forward to claim him.
Thanks to the Putney Pensioner scheme, Maverick was rehomed within weeks.
I rehomed my gorgeous tabby Maverick through the Putney Pensioner scheme - it's brill!! Putney are a wonderful support making sure Maverick has any medical care he needs throughout his twilight years.
I've had him for nearly two years now - rehoming that little ball of fluff is one of the best things I've ever done!
Claudia Gough is an experienced cat owner who has also adopted a pensioner cat from us before. And from the look of her recent post on Facebook, she’s ready to do it again!
I rehomed a pensioner cat in 2001. His name was Caesar. He was the most amazing cat, ever! He was 10 when I rescued him and 20 when he died. I had 10 beautiful years with him. Miss him every day.
I still have two cats and would be interested in rehoming another 'pensioner' cat who will enjoy life with two other cats.
Adopt a Putney Pensioner
If you live in London and think you could give a Putney Pensioner a rested retirement please call:
With over 50 seals currently being cared for by our wildlife centre in Norfolk we’re appealing for supporters to sponsor a seal’s rehabilitation.
Staff at East Winch Wildlife Centre in King's Lynn, Norfolk are working hard, and sometimes late into the night, to cope with the unusually high number of seals currently in their care.
High number of seal admissions
During the stormy weather at the beginning of the year 24 seal pups were admitted to our East Winch Wildlife Centre.
Even as the weather has become milder, seals are continuing to arrive at the already busy wildlife centre. Wildlife centre manager, Alison Charles said:
We’re seeing an unusually high number of quite sick common seals.
In previous years we wouldn’t see many of them at this time of year at all. Now it seems like we’re taking in common seal pups all year round!
Mostly the common seal pups arriving are around six-months old, emaciated and suffering with lung-worm.
This is in addition to the grey seal pups that we expect to come in during the winter months.
When the pups are really small and delicate, staff will often stay until 11 or 12 o’clock at night to give them a late feed.
Help us rehabilitate poorly seals
It takes approximately four to five months of continuous care for a seal pup to reach a healthy release weight.
With 52 seals already in the centre’s care and another two due to arrive later today the centre is fast reaching capacity. And, the high number of seals in the centre’s care is putting a very real strain on resources.
Alison continued:
The public have been fantastic at bringing in towels and blankets. But what we really need now is for sponsors to help us pay for veterinary treatment and to feed all the hungry mouths.
You can help!
Sponsor a seal for just £20 a year and help get a seal back to the wild.
To sponsor a seal, or for more information, please contact:
A bearded dragon lizard with appalling injuries was dumped and left to die in Leicester.
The lizard was discovered by concerned members of the public in Western Park on Monday 9 January, who then took it home.
We were contacted and an inspector attended the address.
Exotic pet found to be suffering
The reptile was barely alive when it was found, and had severe wounds which included a missing front-left foot, a missing tail and rotting skin on its back.
Sadly the bearded dragon was in such poor health that it had to be put to sleep after being assessed by a vet. RSPCA Inspector Michelle Hare said:
This poor bearded dragon had obviously been suffering for some time, and was just left for dead by whoever dumped it.
When the lizard was examined it was obvious that it was in a very poor physical state, and unfortunately it was in such a bad condition that there was no choice but to put it to sleep, to prevent it suffering further.
It is extremely sad to see an animal left like this.
Appeal for information
We’re appealing for anyone with information to come forward and contact our confidential cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.
Michelle continued:
Whoever abandoned this reptile gave no thought to its wellbeing, and would have known that it stood no chance of survival. They just cruelly left it to suffer.
Somebody must know something about this animal and who abandoned it, and I would urge them to come forward in confidence.
Those found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can face a maximum six month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.
Meeting the needs of exotic pets
Like many exotic animalsbearded dragons are pets with complex needs, and we would encourage people to think carefully before getting one as a pet.
Bearded dragons require a home that closely represents their natural habitat, with specific heating, lighting and food. Research and preparation needs to be undertaken prior to buying.
For more information on keeping bearded dragons, and other exotic pets, visit our exotic pets page.
Gunner, a gorgeous eight-year-old bull mastiff, is currently charming staff at our Newport Animal Centre in South Wales as he patiently waits for a caring new owner to offer him a 'forever' home.
Gunner was brought to the centre by an RSPCA inspector after he was found abandoned in a property in an emaciated condition without food or water.
'He is a proper old man' and 'will make a fantastic companion'
Ideal company for the pub!
Elaine Buchan, centre manager, said:
Gunner is such a nice boy and will make a fantastic companion dog who would adore being with someone all day, going on gentle strolls, taking a snooze, etc.
We all know that quite often owners and their dogs will start to resemble each other, so if there are especially any retired men out there who fancy a gentle canine companion to accompany them to the pub, he would be ideal.
He is a proper old man and all the staff here have agreed that we could just picture him propping up the bar and solving all the problems of the world!
'A gentle giant with very soft eyes'
Although he would prefer being with someone all day, Gunner would also suit a family and other types of owners.
He is actually a gentle giant with very soft eyes and we have reduced the age of children we think he could live with to primary school age, though he could not live with cats.
Gunner is in good health and is 'quite a spritely old soul'
Despite being elderly, Gunner has no special needs and is not on medication.
In fact staff report him as quite a spritely old soul with a sparkle in the eye, who will enjoy a bit of a play or a run around too.
Elaine added:
Considering his circumstances, he is now in remarkably good health and is very keen on his food, cleaning his bowl in three seconds flat!
Can you help?
If you think you're a perfect match for Gunner and can offer him a permanent, loving home, please contact:
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