Animal charity launches appeal after warning of risk of closure amid coronavirus outbreak
AN ANIMAL charity has launched an appeal for donations after warning they are at risk of closure amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Folly Wildlife Rescue has been forced to cancel all fundraising activities due to the crisis and will lose out on thousands of pounds. The Kent-based charity is also facing a shortage of food for animals due to stockpiling affecting the pet industry.
Events which have been cancelled include a quiz night and sponsored walk.
In a Facebook post, the rescue centre urged people to donate food or money.
They said: “This juvenile is rabbit is almost ready to go home.
“As with all juvenile wildlife its absolutely important to be as hands off as possible.
“Its crucial for the their lives for us to distance ourselves to give them the best chance of survival when they return to the wild.
“We urge all of our supporters and Folly family to do the same with their friends and family, to help is beat covid 19 and give our NHS a better chance of helping those in need.
“We all need to follow the advice regarding social distancing. It will save lives! Its absolutely crucial.
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“The longer it goes on, greater the risk of rescues across the country closing for good.
“We are all unable to do talks, events and other fundraising activities, we are worried.
“We are also now having to contend with lack of food for our animals as stockpiling hits the pet industry.
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“We know everyone is struggling, we know its worrying times for all, but please if anyone can help your local rescue in you area with even the smallest donation, be it cash, be it food it will be extremely appreciated. Thank you so much for your support.”
Folly Wildlife Rescue, which was founded in 1993, takes in thousands of injured and orphaned animals every year including hedgehogs, badgers, foxes, mice, rabbits and deer, as well as birds.
The centre in Tunbridge Wells has a veterinary and X-ray unit.
The charity also runs a wildlife education programme.
They rely on public donations, grants, legacies and fundraising activities to continue their work.
Their appeal comes as Boris Johnson, who has tested positive for coronavirus, put the UK on lockdown in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19.