RSPCA still here during crisis
THE RSPCA has reassured animal lovers in Halton it is continuing to rescue and rehome animals despite the coronavirus outbreak.
A spokeswoman for the charity said it has contingency plans to cope with the months ahead.
Front line officers continue to work around the clock and are on orders to wash their hands before and after handling animals, and to avoid entering premises and to ask the occupants to bring the animals to the door instead if possible.
The spokeswoman said the 24-hour rescue line will continue to operate but that callers should check online at www.rspca.org.uk first as a lot of information is available there and call waiting times might be long due to more limited staff numbers.
Animal centres and hospitals remain open, with extra hygiene measures in place.
Emergencies are being handled on an appointment-only basis, and there are restrictions on the number of pet owners in the hospitals at any one time.
Anyone unwell is advised to ask someone else to bring their sick pet in.
The RSPCA has asked anyone with symptoms of coronavirus (Covid19) not to visit its centres and hospitals.
Prospective adopters are advised to browse online before making an appointment.
Chris Sherwood, RSPCA chief executive, said: “Thanks to our amazing, dedicated and professional team of staff and volunteers, the RSPCA is still rescuing and rehoming animals in these difficult times.
“We are having to change the way we work, but please be assured we are doing everything we can to make sure that we get help to the animals most in need.”
He added: “There is a great deal of anxiety, worry and concern at the moment. Being around animals can bring great pleasure, companionship and mental health benefits, so we hope people will draw comfort from spending time with their pets and watching wildlife to help them through the weeks and months ahead.”