RSPCA Goes Virtual: Pets Still Up for Adoption Despite Lockdown
Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and other furry friends can still find new homes as the RSPCA shifts to a virtual rehoming and delivery system. With all 14 national centres across England and Wales closed to the public, the animal charity is relying on video calls and photo sharing to match pets with their future owners.
Meet Your New Pet via Video Call – Delivered Safely to Your Door
Prospective adopters can chat with RSPCA staff and meet animals online. Once a suitable match is found and long-term commitment discussed, an RSPCA team member delivers the pet directly to the adopter’s home. The charity stresses that lockdown is temporary and warns people to think carefully before taking the plunge.
“It’s so important people consider whether they are able to meet the needs of pets for the long term,” said RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood. “A rescue companion is an amazing, rewarding choice.”
Lockdown Pets Desperate for Homes
- Bridget & Princess – This size-different dog duo from the RSPCA Solent Branch in Hampshire are inseparable and looking for a home together without other pets, but ideally with older, teenage children. Bridget weighs 28kg; Princess is just 12kg. Both need training and plenty of attention.
- Bella – At the Millbrook Animal Centre in Woking, the timid one-year-old beagle cross requires a patient adopter who can build her trust after a rocky start in four homes by seven months old.
- Soot – A shy black and white cat from Newport Animal Centre hoping for a fresh start. Treats will win him over in time.
Surging Interest in Rescue Pets During Pandemic
Since lockdown began in March 2020, the RSPCA’s Find a Pet webpage views soared 68% to nearly 40 million. Fostering page visits rocketed 244%, hitting almost half a million. Despite the pandemic, the charity’s emergency line fielded over 827,000 calls about animal welfare issues.
Dermot Murphy, head of RSPCA rescue teams, said: “Animal cruelty did not stop for coronavirus. Our teams are working tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals safely under tough conditions.”
The charity urges donations and support as it continues this vital work. More info on adopting, fostering, or donating can be found on the RSPCA Find a Pet website.
