COVID-19 Update (October 2020)

Since March 2020, we have complied with the rules and guidelines as they have evolved during this very difficult and worrying time. In line with Government guidance, we stopped all our face to face fundraising and charity events, adoptions stopped due to social distancing, and our charity shops were closed as the High Streets became dormant. The gradual easing of restrictions without a full return to the normal activities of the High Street has seen many retailers fail. Currently our charity shops struggle to provide a significant contribution to the vital core funding that Stray Aid requires.

Stray Aid relies on financial contributions for its survival, any amount you can donate, no matter how small, will help ensure that we are still here for the many lost, abused and abandoned dogs and unwanted cats across the North East of England.

As we move into the winter quarter, our Trustees and Directors are again looking at the impact of Covid-19 on Stray Aid with concern. The toll has already been heavy, with non-essential staff members furloughed and then made redundant, volunteers not allowed in the kennels, severe restrictions on numbers visiting the site meaning that families cannot currently be safely introduced to our rescue dogs, limiting the options for adoption.

We’re operating on the minimum that we possibly can, so the new job support scheme won’t help us. We have followed the rules from day one and we will continue to comply with Government guidance as our area becomes surrounded by further councils going into Tier 3 restrictions, and we brace ourselves as we fear the full impact on animal welfare in our region is yet to come, as tailored support for animal rescue seems unlikely.

We will continue to help the most vulnerable and at risk dogs in the North East. Everything we do will be assessed on a case-by-case basis as we must ensure the safety of our welfare team against Covid.

It has become more difficult to safely accept donations of pet food from the public, as current guidelines advise us to leave any new donations untouched by our staff and volunteers for at least 3 days, which brings its own logistical problems.

Stray Aid has continued to keep its on-site veterinary centre open during the pandemic, providing a high level of veterinary care for all our animals, including operations, vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and even nail trims, to ensure that the pets in our care are happy, healthy and comfortable whilst maintaining social distancing.

We have recently invested in a marquee outside the rehoming centre, to allow a prospective new owner to meet their Stray Aid dog under cover from the worst of the winter weather, whilst following best practice.

Your financial support now, more than ever, is crucial in meeting our core funding to allow Stray Aid to continue our vital work. Any amount will make a difference, ensuring vulnerable pets keep on getting the love and care they deserve.

Please make a donation today to ensure Stray Aid continues to provide homeless pets with the help they need.

We thank you for your patience, your understanding and your support, through these very challenging times.

Please remember to wash your hands, wear a face covering, maintain social distancing – and join Team SAFE!

Thank you!