Supporting pet owners in need
When COVID-19 took hold in the early months of last year, Together for Animals member Mayhew had to restrict many of their physical services in order to ensure the health and safety of staff, volunteers and service users. However, their focus remained firmly on helping animals and pet owners in need and they quickly adapted, finding ways to remotely support them through this time of crisis.
We hear from Mayhew’s Animal Welfare team to find out more…
“As soon as restrictions were announced, we began contacting our most at-risk clients to see what support they needed. We found several were unable to leave their homes or access vital supplies for their cats and dogs, so we quickly began assembling essential care packages of food, flea and worming treatment, litter, warm coats, toys and other enrichment items, which we could safely deliver to those who needed them. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, we were able to deliver 194 care packages to vulnerable animals and their owners in our community last year, and will continue to deliver care packages to those in need as we move through 2021.“
We’ve also taken thousands of phone calls from people who are worried about their pets or those concerned about stray animals or feral cats and are looking for advice. During such as stressful time, expert voices at the end of the phone have helped to ensure cats and dogs have been kept safe. We have also teamed up with local food banks to make donations of pet essentials such as wet and dry food, treats, bones and poo bags, so that struggling pet owners would not be forced to choose between providing for themselves or buying food for their beloved animals.
“Until our physical services are able to resume, Mayhew is still committed to being there for our community. Whether remotely or in person, we will continue to work to support animals and pet owners in need through this crisis and beyond.”