The RSPCA is the UK's leading voice on animal welfare issues but there are concerns about the prosecutions it is bringing to court.

Some barristers claim the RSPCA is over zealous in its prosecutions

Barristers and other critics claim its emphasis has switched from focussing on animal cruelty to an over-zealous targeting of animal neglect.

It is also at the forefront of a controversial movement which links animal abuse to child abuse.

Allan Urry investigates allegations that the charity could be in danger of sparking child welfare investigations based on unsubstantiated academic research.

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