Pet rescue centre feeling effects of the pandemic
Bath Cats and Dogs Home says the cost of the pandemic on the health of pets is now becoming apparent.
The rescue centre says pet owners were often unable to visit vets during the lockdown which led to animals not being treated for serious conditions.
The revelation comes as the charity launches its Winter Appeal for donations to its animal rescue work.
One of the home’s recent rescue cases was a beautiful German shepherd dog named Bellatrix - or Bella - which was found in a very poor condition on the streets.
She has been lovingly coaxed back to health by staff.
The Alsatian was in such a poor state that it was initially thought she was around five years old, but she turned out to be little older than a puppy.
Charity chief executive Rachel Jones said: “Bellatrix is such a fantastic example of how we can totally transform an animal’s life.
“Bella is such a friendly, clever girl who has lots of affection to give. She will make a terrific pet for the right person.”
Bellatrix was rescued by dog wardens in September when she was found wandering in the Trowbridge area.
She was emaciated and malnourished and was clearly incredibly poorly.
Because of her lack of energy and bedraggled appearance, the animal care team initially thought she was a much older dog.
Two months and heaps of love later, after veterinary treatment and many many cuddles, the team now estimate that Bellatrix is actually a very young dog and guess she is in fact just over one year old.
She initially had to be stabilised by the vet team as she was so unwell. She had blood tests to check for deficiencies and needs vitamin supplements and a special diet for gastrointestinal disease.
Fortunately, since being cared for at the home she has gained about a stone in weight.
The Winter Appeal focuses on the challenges posed by many animals coming into the home with chronic medical conditions, sometimes caused by neglect or problems such as a lack of socialisation.
“Many of the animals taken into the home’s care this year have long term health problems which need prolonged veterinary treatment and intensive, time-consuming rehabilitation,” said Rachel Jones.
“Diabetes, Addison’s, and Cushing’s diseases, inflammatory bowel disease and kidney problems are some of the challenges currently facing animals and the team at the home.
“Unfortunately, we are now starting to see the less obvious effects of the pandemic.
“With so many people facing unprecedented challenges, pet owners were often unable to travel to vets, as well as the past year and a half having a negative impact on many people’s personal wellbeing.”
Bella is just one of many pets who are solely depending on Bath Cats and Dogs Home to give her the second chance she so desperately deserves.
The work is heavy on staff time and resources but luckily, the team have lots of love to give.
If you would like to support them, please visit www.bathcatsanddogshome.org.uk.