NEARLY 500 calls were made to the RSPCA cruelty line in Dorset last Christmas.

Volunteers across the UK dealt with the highest number of calls for five years and they are expecting even more this year.

Now the charity is asking the public to Stock the Sleigh for the RSPCA to help all the animals it cares for over the festive season.

Inspectors will be working 24 hours a day rescuing animals from pets to wildlife and taking them to places of safety.

Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer, said: "Our cruelty line received more than 900 calls on Christmas Day last year and our rescue officers are always out working through the festive period to help animals in need.

"Hospital staff will be working to provide veterinary care for injured and sick animals and our animal centre staff will be making sure the hundreds of pets and wild animals in our care over Christmas are well looked after.

"Rescue work doesn’t stop just because it’s Christmas. We know that animals need our help all-year round and our officers are out in all weathers helping save pets from abuse and neglect, and rescuing wildlife who may be injured or in need of assistance. We are expecting to take in more than 10,000 animals this winter which means the officers, vets and animal care staff are braced for another busy festive period.

"We can’t do this on our own - we rely on our generous supporters to help the many animals who come into our care this Christmas in urgent need whether it is for veterinary care, medicine, food or a safe, comfortable and warm bed. We are asking animal lovers to Stock the Sleigh for the RSPCA and help us to care for these animals in desperate need this winter."

It costs around £670,000 to run an RSPCA centre for a year and all donations are welcome. Go to rspca.org.uk/giftofkindness to donate.