PHILADELPHIA — Pennsylvania animal rescue officials hope a new toll-free hot line will make it easier for those who witness abuse of animals to get help.

The Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals plans to launch its toll-free line on Feb. 1. But executive director Howard Nelson says calls to the line are already being answered. The number is 866-601-SPCA.

The nonprofit PSPCA is based in Philadelphia, with six satellite facilities and a staff of 14 law enforcement agents with authority to enforce animal cruelty laws.

The group responded to 8,000 calls last year, up from 6,000 in 2006.