Dean Russell MP spent time on the road with RSPCA inspector Nick Jonas as they responded to a series of animal cruelty complaints and reports in and around the Watford constituency.
The pair responded to numerous calls - including allegations of a dog beating, pet abandonments and arranging the transportation of animals between sites.
The visit came the same week as the RSPCA marked its 'Busiest Day' - the day which the charity's emergency line statistically receives the most calls from concerned members of the public. On Tuesday (18 July), the charity received a staggering 4,060 calls to its cruelty line.
The animal welfare charity works closely with politicians from across the political spectrum, and its recent Animal Kindness Index found that 83 percent of the public believes animal welfare should be protected by the government through legislation, which rises to 85 percent for the South East of England.
RSPCA inspector Nick Jonas said: "It was fantastic to be able to show Dean Russell MP the work of the RSPCA on the frontline - and the challenges some pet owners and animals face across his constituency; so I'm so grateful he found the time to join us and support our work.
"Summer is a really busy time for us - and calls to our emergency line peak at six every single minute at this time of year.
"We're proud to be on the frontline for animals in Watford; as well as working closely with other agencies locally to achieve so much together for animal welfare.
"Our Animal Kindness Index tells us people really want their elected representatives to act for animals - so it was brilliant to be able to demonstrate our work to a Member of Parliament again, and to discuss our vision for a world where all animals are respected and treated with kindness and compassion."
Following the visit, Dean said, "I am grateful for the opportunity to join Nick, an RSPCA inspector on patrol in Watford today and witness for myself the critical work they do to protect and care for animals. The RSPCA's commitment to ensuring that all animals can live free from pain and suffering aligns with my own values and aspirations for animal welfare. As the oldest welfare charity, the RSPCA sets an inspiring example in advocating for change and improving the lives of animals across the country.
I have spoken in Parliament on a number of occasions on animal welfare issues, and I am pleased that the campaign to bring an end to Trophy Hunting is currently going through Parliament. I have also spoken about the harmful practice of shark finning and spoke in the Chamber when The Shark Fins Act received Royal Assent earlier this month'.
