SHOCKING new statistics show that a neglected animal is reported to the RSPCA every five minutes, with calls from Wiltshire contributing to the winter crisis.

New figures from the animal welfare charity show that, up to the end of October, its dedicated emergency line had received 43,360 reports of neglect.

In Wiltshire alone, the charity received 520 reports about neglected animals in the first 10 months of this year, meaning that neglected pets in Wiltshire contribute to the winter crisis.

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

In the first ten months of the year, the line had been open for 3,474 hours - meaning it averages 12.5 calls about neglect every single hour, or one report every 288 seconds.

The number of reports the charity had about neglect in October - 4,387 - was also higher than the number in the same month in each of the past three years - with incidents shooting up an eye-watering 14.9 per cent compared to last year.

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 Wiltshire.

"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.

"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."

This year the RSPCA is asking supporters to join the Christmas Rescue by donating to help rescue teams reach the thousands of animals who desperately need them.