Nationwide appeal to help pet rescue charities
#RescueYourRescue aims to deliver vital funds to more than 100 pet rescue charities across the UK.
An emergency fundraiser to help pet rescue charities affected by COVID-19 has been launched by Lintbells in collaboration with broadcasting legend, Peter Purves.
The #RescueYourRescue campaign aims to deliver vital funds to more than 100 pet rescue charities across the UK, many of which are facing closure as a result of the ongoing pandemic.
Organisers say the lost revenue normally raised through adoption fees, centre visits, charity shop sales and fundraising events has left the future of these charities 'hanging in the balance'.
“Pet rescue charities across the country support the welfare of animals that need our help the most,” explained Peter Purves. “In these difficult circumstances, I’m appealing for animal lovers to work together to support these brilliant centres and the crucial work that they do.”
A rapid response is needed to protect the health and welfare of rescue animals across the nation. Recent reports suggest that animal shelters are suspending the intake of animals, which could lead to pets being mistreated or abandoned.
“We are a local independent branch of the RSPCA so we have to raise our own funds to keep our animal centre running and look after the animals in our care,” commented RSPCA fundraising manager, Lauren Moore.
“This is normally done through our fundraising events and income from our charity shops, but with the current COVID-19 crisis we have had to close our shops and cancel planned events and activities which has had a devastating effect on our funds. We’ve also been forced to close our animal centre and have cancelled any potential adoptions.”
The campaign aims to raise £250,000, and animal lovers who can afford help are urged to donate a minimum of £2.00.
“Every donation makes a difference, so please give what you can and help spread the word by engaging with the campaign on social media using #RescueYourRescue,” Peter Purves added.
For more information about the campaign and to make a donation visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/page/RescueYourRescue.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
