Prickly situation as drug costs hit charity
STAFF AT a hedgehog rescue centre in Yorkshire have revealed they are facing a financial battle after the cost of an essential medication soared.
Managers at the Hedgehog Emergency Rescue in Bingley said the price of gloves and other personal protective equipment, which are needed to protect them from the infection of ringworm, has also dramatically risen due to increased demand during the coronavirus crisis.
Ivermectin, which has been researched as a possible inhibitor of coronavirus in vitro but is usually used to treat cattle and other mammals, has also increased in price.
Stephanie Knowles, who runs the rescue, said that despite this, the number of hedgehogs admitted is more than three times its capacity as more people have been gardening, which leads to nests being disturbed.
“Most of the equipment we use has gone up in price during the lockdown,” said Ms Knowles, 44.
“One of the medications we use to treat the hedgehogs – Ivermectin – has been linked to a possible treatment for Covid-19, so the price for that has soared.”
The rescue is currently looking after 74 hedgehogs, despite its capacity to care for up to 25.
“We’re looking for anyone who can volunteer and someone who can help us fundraise,” said Ms Knowles. “Hedgehogs are wonderful creatures and just delightful to look after.”