A leading Scottish animal charity has branded a rise in cruelty towards pets as "shameful".

The Scottish SPCA claims it has seen a dramatic rise in the cases of mistreatment, neglect and violence.

Emergency calls from members of the public to the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline leapt by 20% in 2008, with 126,000 calls received.

The charity's inspectors attended more than 38,000 incidents and rescues, a rise of more than 5,000 since 2007.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: "Whether it's violence towards animals, abandonments or neglect, we are dealing with increase after increase.

"While we are lucky that in general people in Scotland take great care of their animals, it's shameful that so many still believe animals are something worthless they can throw away, abuse or even kill."

Whether it is violence towards animals, abandonments or neglect, the charity says the cruel treatment ranges widely.

It includes depriving animals of essential veterinary care, starvation, and dog-fighting.

It also extends to animals being shot or beaten to death for entertainment.

Neglect and violence is such a major issue the charity is now extending its service, with a new animal rescue and rehoming centre planned for Aberdeen.