Ricky Gervais has thrown his support behind the RSPCA, which has launched an appeal today to raise funds to keep its rescuers on the frontline saving animals.
Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by the 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 at its centres and hospitals. It is expecting even more to come into its care in the coming weeks as its rescue teams bring in more animals in need. Alongside this, the charity is 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.
Animal lover Ricky said: “It is really important for us all to pull together to help each other at this difficult time and someone needs to be there for animals too. I would urge people to give whatever they can spare at this really difficult time to support the RSPCA so they can stay out on the frontline rescuing the animals who need them most.
“They are facing huge challenges through this crisis, but their amazing staff are committed to being there for animals in danger in any way they can and they can only do it with your help.”
EMERGENCY-ONLY
The national RSPCA is currently caring for more than 3,000 animals including more than 880 dogs, 870 cats, 840 horses and 200 rabbits, plus many more.
RSPCA Inspectorate staff are providing an emergency-only service throughout the lockdown period.
Dermot Murphy, chief inspectorate officer, 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 must still be here for animals who are suffering and we are appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”
Since the crisis deepened at the beginning of March, the charity’s animal cruelty line has already received nearly 60,000 calls.
To donate, go to www.rspca.org.uk/covid
