The RSPCA is today launching an emergency appeal to keep its rescue teams out on the frontline in Nottinghamshire saving animals through the Coronavirus crisis.

Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by Government but vital funding is needed to keep them out on the road, continuing to rescue animals from the worst cruelty and neglect.

Although RSPCA centres have closed to the public, the charity continues to provide vital care to thousands of animals across England and Wales and even more are expected to come into its care in the coming weeks as its rescue teams bring in more animals in need.

Alongside this, the charity is also facing a huge financial strain as it is already seeing the damaging effect of this crisis on its fundraising income, while the costs of saving, treating and caring for animals continue.

Last year (2019), RSPCA rescuers dealt with 3,531 welfare incidents in Nottinghamshire and they are continuing to save animals on the frontline through these difficult times.

The teams are continuing an emergency-only service through the lockdown period and the charity is currently caring for 3,288 animals across England and Wales.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA Rescue Teams, said: “This is a time of national crisis, and many of us are anxious about the future and our loved ones. This crisis has touched all areas of life and the RSPCA is no different. As we all face the biggest challenge of a generation, the RSPCA must continue to be on the frontline, rescuing and caring for the animals who need us most.

“Our rescuers, vets and nurses have been designated key workers by the Government which means we can carry on saving animals from cruelty and neglect but we rely entirely on generous public donations to fund our vital services.

“We are facing immense challenges and huge pressures on strained resources, but our hugely dedicated teams are out there dealing with emergencies and our centres continue to deliver vital care to thousands of animals, with more expected in the coming weeks.

“We know that this is a difficult time for everyone but we simply cannot turn our back on animals who are suffering and we are appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”

Since the coronavirus crisis deepened at the beginning of March, the chariry’s animal cruelty line has received nearly 60,000 calls.

These include a badger that had three broken limbs and a possible shot wound. It was found tied to a tree branch in Alfreton.

Donations can be made at www.rspca.org.uk/covid

Pet owners can also find advice and help for caring for their animals during the coronavirus crisis on the charity’s website.

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