Ross-shire animal charity facing a challenge during coronavirus crisis; Munlochy Animal Aid expects to lose thousands of pounds during lockdown
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It is not just the human population in the Highlands that is being affected by the coronavirus pandemic – it is hitting our furry friends as well.
Iona Nicol, who has run Munlochy Animal Aid for 42 years in North Kessock, said: “We aren’t rehoming at the moment and we’ve just put the brakes on everything – coronavirus is having a major effect on us. All fundraising is cancelled and we will lose thousands of pounds this year.”
The charity is currently home to 150 animals which, as well as dogs and cats, includes sheep, horses, pigs, rabbits and guinea pigs. Mrs Nicol said they still had some space, but it could soon fill up.
She said: “The costs are quite high and we will keep trying to come up with gimmicky ideas to try and get people to help us.
“We are always grateful for donations but we do need it because we are going to lose a significant amount of money this year – any donations we get are gratefully received.”
She said donations could be made online and people could also leave items – including cat and kitten toys and dog treats – at the gate of the shelter.
“We look forward to everything getting back to normal and having our lovely staff back on duty. My niece Iona is still working with us at the sheep and horses thankfully,” she added.
The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), which has a centre in Inverness, is also finding it a difficult time.
SSPCA Highlands and Islands animal rescue and rehoming centre manager Elaine Floyd said: “Our team is working incredibly hard to continue to provide the animals with the care they need and to maintain their routine. “Our helpline is still operating and our rescue officers and inspectors are still on the ground rescuing injured and abused animals.
“Therefore, we will still have animals coming in with none being rehomed.”
She added that donations were also down because the lockdown is keeping people at home and added that they are in need of a selection of items from cat and kitten food to dog treats. “But, it’s not all doom and gloom, our animals are still receiving the care and rehabilitation they need. As far as they are concerned it’s business as usual.”
