Animals could be put in danger as shocking statistics show nearly a third of Scots would call the wrong animal helpline.
This Scottish Animal Week, the Scottish SPCA has released research which reveals a staggering 31% of Scots don’t have the correct number.
A recent study has shown that although 69% of people would call Scotland’s animal welfare charity if they discovered an injured or distressed animal, 25% of people would contact the RSPCA and 6% would contact other organisations.
Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “Although awareness of our helpline has increased by an incredible 283% since 2009, and last year we received an incredible 240,000 calls, it is concerning that some people would contact the wrong organisation if they come across an injured or distressed animal.”
He said Scottish Animal Week, which runs until this Sunday, was the charity’s chance to highlight that its animal helpline should be the first point of call for members of the public.
“You should call our helpline if an animal is in danger or distress or if you need animal welfare advice.
“If someone calls the wrong telephone number it will delay rescues and could cause animals more suffering.
“By making our animal helpline your immediate point of contact for any animals in distress it will help us save more lives.
“All calls to our animal helpline are in strict confidence and can be made anonymously if necessary,” he said.
Earlier this year, the Scottish SPCA was alerted by a member of the public when a female swan was found with an arrow embedded under its wing in Kirkcaldy.
It was discovered that the arrow narrowly missed the injured bird’s vital organs and spine.
After undergoing emergency surgery, the swan made a full recovery at the Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross before being released at a protected site on the River Tay in April.
Mr Flynn added, “This swan’s journey from rescue to recovery and eventual release would not have been possible without the member of the public who knew to call our animal helpline.
“In 2015 our inspectors and animal rescue officers were able to help over 80,000 animals thanks to the people who contact us with concerns about animals in distress.”
Anyone with information about an injured or distressed animal should contact the animal helpline on 03000 999999.