The RSPCA has received more than 1,600 reports of abandoned animals across England and Wales since lockdown began - an average of 40 a day.

In Cornwall, there have been reports of about 14 abandoned animals to the charity’s cruelty hotline since lockdown started on March 23.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA rescue teams, said: “Although much of the country is on lockdown, sadly there are still thousands of animals who need our help, including abandoned pets.

“Many people are finding their pets are a real source of comfort in these anxious times and thankfully cases of abandonment are slightly lower than usual but it’s heartbreaking that some animals are being dumped during this crisis.

“In most cases we don’t know why pets are abandoned but it’s really important to remind people that there is no evidence to suggest that Covid-19 can be passed from pets to people.

“There is lots of help and support out there for anyone else struggling to get animal food, with health or behavioural issues, exercising their pets or managing to keep children safe around pets. Please don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Since the Government introduced the lockdown measures, the RSPCA has responded to more than 27,000 incidents, with 1,600 incidents of abandoned animals reported. The number of animals being cared for by the RSPCA at centres, hospitals and vet surgeries has also grown by hundreds.

Since lockdown began, rescuers have dealt with 27,507 incidents of animal cruelty, neglect and suffering animals which need help. The charity has received more than 92,800 calls from members of the public, and there are more than 4,300 animals in RSPCA care.

The charity is urging pet-owners to make an emergency pet-care plan should they be admitted to hospital with Coronavirus, including placing a poster in the window informing people that there are pets inside.

Many owners are concerned about caring for their pets amid the Covid-19 outbreak. There’s lots of advice and help on the charity's website.

To help the RSPCA keep rescuing animals like these donate at: www.rspca.org.uk/covid.