Peak in calls over flood-related incidents, reports RSPCA

As storms batter the country, charities are under pressure from a peak in the number of animals requiring rescue and shelter.

Between December 29, 2013 and January 2, 2014, the RSPCA says it has been called to 149 incidents, received 150 calls requesting help with flood-related issues and assisted in the rescue of more than 130 animals.

On Friday 3, a team of the charity's officers were called out to a flooded farm for a large-scale rescue, which involved 44 young cattle, three horses, two German shepherds and four Chihuahuas, all of which had to be moved to safety.

John Pollock, RSPCA deputy chief inspector, said: "It has been an immense job, but worth it to see the animals helped to a place of safety.

"The same farm flooded last year, and luckily the farmer went to great lengths to secure the farm against the worst of the weather. He had already managed to get his sheep to higher ground before the weather beat him, and that was where we were able to step in and assist."

A team of specially trained water specialists were deployed by the charity at the weekend in anticipation of further problems.

Seals affected by last month's severe weather in Norfolk are still residing at RSPCA's East Winch Wildlife Centre and are reported to be responding well to treatment.

Centre manager Alison Charles said:  "Staff and volunteers continue into our fifth week of feeding from 8am to after midnight and are exhausted but the seals are improving so our hard work is paying off."