"There will be help available for animals that need it during the second national lockdown", says the Island's RSPCA.
There will be some changes in the way the business at the branch’s animal rescue centre is conducted but the message from the RSPCA is clear.
Essential centre staff have spent the past few days ensuring as many animals as possible have been safely placed for adoption or fostering prior to new restrictions commencing.
There will be no face to face contact but suitable animals will be homed in the appropriate locations using virtual processes like conference calls.
The centre itself and the five-star boarding facility Bohemia Boarding will both remain staffed even though the public will not be able to visit.
Suzanne Pugh, branch manager of the Isle of Wight, said:
“We will have to do things differently again given the need to observe restrictions but we will be there for animals in need of our help” s
RSPCA. Our staff and volunteers have been magnificent and I know they will continue to work hard to help us maintain our services in what will be another challenging period for residents and their animal companions.”
However, with boarding activity certain to be reduced and the RSPCA having to close its four Island charity shops for lockdown, the organisation is again appealing for the support of its emergency appeal.
So far, around £29,000 has been raised from generous donations which has proved critical in the RSPCA’s ability to carry on providing services throughout the pandemic so far.
Suzanne added:
“We have been really moved and are extremely grateful for all the support we have received – it has ensured we will be here to undertake our work throughout the new lockdown and certainly into the new year.
“But as we enter another period of restrictions, our usual fundraising activity will be curtailed and RSPCA regional news www.rspca.org.uk we are once again turning to our wonderful supporters for help.”
Anyone wishing to inquire about adoption can contact the RSPCA on 01983 840287.
If you come across a wounded, distressed or stray animal then please call 0300 1234 999 and for wildlife, the RSPCA asks that they initially be taken to your local veterinary hospital for assessment and they will be collected once the animal has had a health check by a veterinarian.
Updates on adoption – homes are being sought in particular for degus in its care – can be viewed on the IW RSPCA Facebook page.
Anyone wishing to support an emergency appeal set up by the centre to help it through these challenging times can do so via the donation button on the website www.rspca- iowbranch.org.uk or call 01983 840287 or Text RSPCAIOW to 70470.