So far, RSPCA flood rescue teams have rescued eight dogs, seven cats, four rabbits and three chickens.

The footage includes the rescue of a dog called Ronnie who was trapped in the upstairs of a flooded school in Carlisle, before he and his owners were evacuated through a window after RSPCA officers had waded through the building’s dark and flooded corridors to reach them.

The crews operating in Carlisle also worked alongside the emergency services and helped rescue an elderly man from a nursing home in the town, before he was transported on a stretcher by one of the RSPCA’s boats and taken to hospital.

Others rescued included a man and woman who were rescued through an upstairs window after their home was flooded during the storm.

A short compilation of the footage can be downloaded from http://bit.ly/1jM8pEW

The RSPCA has received calls about 88 flooding incidents since Friday (4.12.15). More than 20 flood trained officers travelled from across England and Wales to join their colleagues in Cumbria and Northumberland to assist the ongoing rescue operation.

The flood rescue teams have now stood down as the water levels begin to drop, although the RSPCA has been in contact with Trading Standards and the National Farmers’ Union and has offered to assist with any remaining stranded livestock.

Inspector Ben Strangwood, who has coordinated the RSPCA’s flood response, said: “I am extremely proud of the RSPCA flood rescue teams and that we have been able to help animals and people who have been affected by the floods.

“It has been a huge challenge as the flooding is so widespread across a large geographical area.

“We have received a lot of calls, mainly to help people who have had to leave their animals when they have evacuated their homes. However, we have also had to contend with extremely dangerous conditions and fast flowing water.”

With more rain forecast in some areas later this week owners of animals in areas at risk of flooding are advised to move them to higher ground or other areas of safety.

Members of the public are urged never to put their own or another person’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue. Anyone who wishes to report an animal emergency can call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

The RSPCA’s full flood advice is available at http://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/floods

The RSPCA can only carry out rescues and assist during the floods thanks to your help. Please text HELP to 78866 to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).