STARTLING new figures released today show that cruelty towards animals is increasing in the region.
The RSPCA is calling for tighter laws to safeguard pets after statistics highlighted the urgent need to improve exisiting legislation which is nearly 100 years old.
In the North Manchester area, which includes Bolton, prosecutions rose from 16 to 21 between 2003-2004.
The number of rescues increased from 193 to 235 while collection went up to 2,205.
Current legislation which dates back to 1911 means that owners can only be prosecuted once an animal has suffered, making prevention difficult for inspectors who often see their advice repeatedly ignored.
David Millard, the RSPCA's North regional superintendent, said: "We often get calls from the public believing we have not acted when they've contacted us."
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