Inspectors were working with a veterinarian surgeon and the owner of the animals during the investigation when evidence was tampered with by a third party.

The RSPCA could not reveal specific details of the allegations, but the involvement was so great that the investigation could not proceed.

RSPCA inspectorate manager Lisa Edwards said while the people who interfered with the investigation were “well-meaning”, their actions had negative consequences.

“Things effectively flew out of control on social media,” she said.

“When pictures are posted online, people need to be aware that there are no time stamps and they can often be old pictures. People can say whatever they want online without proof or without access to all the information.

“If you take matters into your own hands then it’s likely to hinder our investigations. The RSPCA has the power to investigate and enter properties.”

In Tasmania, the RSPCA received over 3000 reports for 2018 and was able to respond to each one, but complainants do not always receive a report back due to confidentiality and “busy work schedules”.

The RSPCA alleged that some of the activists may have broken the law when tampered with evidence as part of the investigation.

Ms Edwards said the public needed to trust the RSPCA to handle investigations.

“Often we will work with owners to get outcomes – voluntary compliance is the best outcome,” she said.

“It would be great if we had more people on the ground to carry out investigations. We rely on public donations.”

To report animal welfare concerns, contact the RSPCA on 1300 139 947 or visit www.rspcatas.org.au