Charity pays tribute to animals lost in conflict

Inspectors and staff held a two minute silence as they gathered to lay a wreath at a war memorial at the animal welfare charity’s headquarters in Horsham.

The ceremony commemorated the sacrifice of animals in wartime and the significant contribution of countless dogs, cats, birds and even camels in the war effort.

RSPCA Assistant Director for Inspectorate Dermot Murphy said: “It is incredibly important to honour the valiant efforts of RSPCA staff and all animals that were lost during the war efforts.

“We lost 18 RSPCA officers in WW1 and five in WW2, and there were many more who survived, labouring through these and subsequent wars to protect horses, mules and other animals under fire.

“We have reflected on the human and animal pain, distress and losses caused through human conflict and we feel justifiably proud of the bravery and dedication of those people who have gone before us, defending and protecting animals.”

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