Warning, distressing image below.
A dead foal found dumped in a ditch at a Basildon nature reserve has highlighted growing concerns over animal cruelty in Essex, as new figures reveal the county is among the worst in the country.
The RSPCA says it received 151 reports of animal cruelty across Essex during the summer months last year, making it the eighth highest in England despite a slight drop from 154 the year before.
The figures have been released as part of the charity’s “Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues” campaign, warning that cases typically surge during the summer.
One of the most disturbing incidents in Essex involved the body of a young skewbald colt discovered near the entrance to a nature reserve in Bowers Gifford, Basildon.
The foal had been tied to a signpost with blue rope, which was also attached to its legs.
It is believed the animal’s body was transported to the site by trailer or truck before being dragged from the vehicle and dumped.
The foal had visible injuries to its legs and body, along with scrapes and traces of wood shavings on its coat.
It is not known whether the animal was already dead at the time it was abandoned.
The RSPCA says such cases are not uncommon, with dead or gravely ill horses often dumped due to the cost of proper disposal.
The incident comes as new national data shows a sharp rise in cruelty reports.
Across England and Wales, the charity recorded 6,322 calls to its emergency line during June, July and August last year — the equivalent of one call every 10 minutes.
That figure has risen by 64 per cent compared to the same period in 2021, when 3,852 calls were logged.
Year-on-year, reports have also jumped by 22 per cent, from 17,260 in 2024 to 21,117 in 2025.
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RSPCA Superintendent Jo Hirst said the trend is deeply concerning.
"It’s incredibly alarming that we are seeing year after year of rising reports of cruelty," she said.
"The summer months are our busiest time and our teams will be working tirelessly to help as many animals as possible."
The charity has also warned that major events such as football tournaments can coincide with spikes in domestic abuse — which in turn can involve harm to pets.
In one case, a kitten named Chester was left with serious injuries after being attacked in a domestic abuse situation.
The animal survived following emergency veterinary care and RSPCA intervention, while the perpetrator was later convicted.
Inspector Miranda Albinson said cases linking animal abuse and domestic violence are becoming more common.
"A lot of times victims are unaware their partners are responsible for injuries to their pets," she said.
"Pets are often used as a means of control."
The RSPCA is urging anyone concerned about animal welfare or domestic abuse to seek help.
Reports can be made anonymously, and support services are available for both people and animals at risk.
More information is available via the RSPCA website, while the National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
