THE RSPCA has received reports about 13 abandoned animals across Oxfordshire since lockdown started on March 23.

The charity released the figures as part of its emergency appeal to keep its rescue teams out on the road during the coronavirus pandemic.

Across England and Wales, the charity's hotline has received more than 1,600 reports of abandoned animals – at an average of 40 incidents a day.

Also read: This man climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest twice at home

Animal rescuers have been designated key workers by the government but funding is needed to help the RSPCA’s frontline staff continue their work.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA rescue teams, said: "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 do not know why pets are abandoned."