animals – Page 2 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

Briton leads ‘the largest and most technically advanced conservation project in history’

Work is poised to commence on the largest and most technically advanced and ambitious conservation project in history, set to cost an estimated £ 5 billion.

The brainchild of British entrepreneur Richard Prinsloo Curson, the state-of-the-art animal and ecological conservation park will aim to preserve every species on the planet. In planning for over four years, the park will cover 100 square kilometres of land in South Africa.

A film crew and photographic team has followed every aspect of their journey from seeking approval from the King of the Zulus, to the development of the ambitious plans, meeting the animals, the obstacles, trials and tribulations the team have faced throughout.

The 12 part television series Noah’s Ark will be broadcast in the UK and distributed to broadcasters globally, in January 2021 with a second series in the planning.

Richard Prinsloo Curson said: “The animal kingdom is at crisis point. Climate change, over development, farming, ocean plastic, big game hunting and poaching are driving thousands of species off the face of the planet.

“We owe it to future generations to preserve the natural world or our children will be left fighting the horrific consequences of climate change to survive”.

WWF (World Wildlife Fund) reported in 2018, that humans have already wiped out 60% of Earth’s animals since 1970. If humanity continues with over development, poaching and hunting, polluting the oceans and affecting climate change, the natural world will be gone completely in 20 years.

The new estimate of the massacre of wildlife is made in a major report by the WWF involving 59 scientists from across the globe www.wwf.org.uk/updates/living-planet-report-2018 .

It reported that the vast and growing consumption of food and resources by the global population is destroying the web of life, billions of years in the making, upon which human society ultimately depends for clean air, water and everything else.

“We are sleepwalking towards the edge of a cliff”, said Mike Barrett, executive director of science and conservation at WWF. “If there was a 60% decline in the human population, that would be equivalent to emptying North America, South America, Africa, Europe, China and Oceania.

“That is the scale of what we have done. This is far more than just about losing the wonders of nature, desperately sad though that is,” he said. “This is actually now jeopardising the future of people. Nature is not a ‘nice to have’ – it is our life-support system”.

To help fund the project, Prinsloo Curson and the team behind Noah’s Ark are putting out a worldwide call for donations from £1 to billions of pounds inviting donations from the world’s individuals, businesses, entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

Noahs Ark Go Fund Me page, the largest in history https://bit.ly/32utUDH

Watch : Globetrotter Television SKY TV, channel 192, weekly from the 11th January 2021, 12:00 GMT https://bit.ly/2JV5g8Q

Which dog is for You?

Covid Encourages Dog Ownership to Soar

Since the appearance of Covid-19 pet ownership has been on the increase. Lockdown has brought a variety of changes to our lives and for many families adding a new canine friend has been a popular choice due to lockdown and months of isolation.

Problems arise once a new puppy or dog is brought into the home and understanding the right type of care to give can be a struggle.

Perfect-Pets books have published a new guide entitled Which Dog? An Essential Guide to Britain’s 20 Most Popular Breeds. Beautifully illustrated with colour photos it is a book that all the family can enjoy that helps dog lovers decide which breed is best for them and offers tips on the type of care they will need.

Owning a new dog certainly has its rewards but knowing which dog to choose can be a difficult choice to make. Some breeds require high-octane activity while others enjoy quieter solitude. The type of home an owner has may or may not be suitable for the type of breed that is desired.

In the beginning a puppy is very cute but depending on the breed that same puppy can grow into a very large dog that needs a great amount of attention, space and exercise. This can be disconcerting for some owners who might prefer a smaller dog, or a dog that has a quieter nature that requires less fuss.

In general, pet ownership has increased due to Covid-19. A recent survey has found that nearly half of all pet owners in the UK added at least one new furry friend during lockdown and 10% of British households currently without pets intend to get one in the next six months.

These are staggering statistics but with 37% of pet owners working from home during the height of the pandemic it was inevitable that owners would get closer to their pets and be tempted to bring another one into their home.

Lockdown has also brought the darker side of dog breeding into the spotlight, as demand soared. Google searches for “buy a puppy” increased by 166 percent since lockdown was announced on 23 March 2020. The increase in demand has caused an upswing in prices for puppies which is a worry for breeders and charities. Siberian

Husky breeder Stephen Biddlecombe points out they have been inundated with emails from prospective owners. He says: “A puppy is a puppy only for a few weeks and then that puppy grows into an adult, an adult dog, and you’ve got a completely different animal on your hands, as you can see.”

It is feared that not all breeders are acting appropriately. The Kennel Club’s Bill Lambert said some breeders had hiked their prices and there is concern that some buyers would look abroad, where welfare standards can be lower. He said: ‘We are hearing stories that some breeders are actually profiteering.”

As many workers return to their jobs and children go back to school there is a worry that the novelty of owning a new puppy or dog will wear off and they will be abandoned or dropped off at a rescue centre.

Since Covid-19 rescue centres have seen an increase in the number of abandoned dogs as rising unemployment hits record levels. The public has shown great interest in adopting or fostering dogs during the crisis, but Dogs Trust said: “Dog ownership is a wonderful thing, but it is a lifelong commitment which must be carefully considered.

“As our saying goes, ‘a dog is for life’ and, in this case, not just for self-isolation.”

Bringing a new dog into a home comes with responsibilities so it is important to research and think carefully before buying a dog or adding any new additions. Perfect-Pets Books have an extensive range of Essential Guides for dog and cat lovers that offer advice and information to help owners provide the best care possible.

Books such as First Aid for Dogs, Dog Rescue and Dog Training act as great complements to Perfect-Pets’ most popular dog breeds Essential Guides.

So, if you are wondering which dog is for you and want to be prepared in order to give the best care possible visit: www.perfect-pets.org

Top dog Kuno to receive Dickin Medal

Retired military dog Kuno is to receive the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal for valour – the animal Victoria Cross – after he was wounded in action while heroically saving the lives of British Forces fighting Al Qaeda.

During a dangerous operation in 2019, three-year-old Belgian Shepherd Malinois Kuno and his handler were deployed in support of specialist UK and host nation forces on a compound raid against a well-armed and aggressive enemy when they came under attack.

Pinned down by grenade and machine-gun fire from an insurgent, the assault force was unable to move without taking casualties.

Without hesitation, Kuno charged through a hail of gunfire to tackle the gunman, breaking the deadlock and changing the course of the attack, allowing the mission to be completed successfully.

During the assault Kuno was wounded by bullets in both back legs. He was given life-saving treatment by his handler and by medics in the back of a helicopter.

His injuries were so severe he required several operations before he was stable enough to fly back to the UK. Sadly, part of one of Kuno’s rear paws had to be amputated to prevent life-threatening infection.

But now he is thriving after becoming the first UK military working dog to be fitted with custom made prosthetic limbs.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Without Kuno, the course of this operation could have been very different, and it’s clear he saved the lives of British personnel that day. This particular raid was one of the most significant achievements against Al Qaeda in several years.

“Kuno’s story reminds us not only of the dedicated service of our soldiers and military dogs, but also the great care that the UK Armed Forces provide to the animals that serve alongside them.”

Kuno underwent extensive rehabilitation under the watchful eye of Army vets and is fitted with prosthetics that allow his to run and play — *Kuno underwent extensive rehabilitation under the watchful eye of Army vets and is fitted with prosthetics that allow him to run and play*

Kuno returned home aboard an RAF plane, receiving in-flight care from a Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) team. Back in the UK he was transferred to the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray where he underwent extensive reconstructive surgery, overseen by Professor Dick White, one of the world’s leading specialists in canine surgery.

Under the painstaking care of Army vets, veterinary nurses and canine physiotherapists, assisted by staff from the University of Nottingham, Kuno then embarked upon an innovative and lengthy programme of rehabilitation to restore function to his nerves and muscles, just like injured service personnel.

Kuno was a friendly and enthusiastic patient throughout, he loves human interaction and especially enjoyed his sessions on the hydrotherapy treadmill.

Within months, he was strong enough to be fitted with a pioneering custom-made prosthesis to replace his missing paw, alongside an orthotic brace to support his injured limb.

Kuno, who was on his second deployment when he was injured, is the first UK military dog to be fitted with such devices. Lightweight and fully bespoke, they enable him to run and jump as he wishes, securing a great quality of life for many years to come.

Colonel Neil Smith QHVS, the Chief Veterinary and Remount Officer, said: “It is important that Military Working Dogs receive a high level of care if they are unfortunately injured, and Defence has military vets and vet nurses to ensure animals receive the care and rehabilitation they deserve.

“Kuno is an amazing dog in many ways, and we are delighted that the PDSA have decided to award him their Dickin Medal.”

Now retired and rehomed, Kuno will receive the PDSA Dickin Medal, the highest animal honour in existence for military animal valour, which will be formally presented by PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary charity who run the world’s most prestigious animal awards programme, in a virtual ceremony in November.

PDSA Director General, Jan McLoughlin, said: Kuno’s heroic actions undoubtedly changed the course of the mission and saved lives. He took on the enemy without fear or hesitation, never faltering from his duty despite being seriously injured.

“For his bravery and devotion to duty, he is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal and we look forward to formally presenting his award later this year.”

The world-renowned PDSA Dickin Medal was introduced by PDSA’s founder, Maria Dickin CBE, in 1943. It is the highest award any animal can achieve while serving in military conflict. Kuno will become the 72nd recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal; previous recipients include 34 dogs, 32 World War II messenger pigeons, four horses and one cat.

*Kuno has now been rehomed and is living happily with a new family*

Could your cat be a winner in the Alternative Cat Awards?

Cats Protection is asking cat owners to send in their feline footage for a new set of lockdown-based awards.

Sadly this year’s National Cat Awards, due to take place on 6 August at The Savoy in London, has had to be postponed until Thursday 5 August next year.

In its place, the charity is launching its Alternative Cat Awards 2020, which celebrates how cats and their owners have been keeping each other company during lockdown.

Whether it’s providing companionship, interrupting meetings, disrupting home schooling or getting involved in workouts, Cats Protection would like owners to show just how entertaining and supportive their feline friends have been, by sending in footage.

If your pawsome pal has made an outstanding contribution to your life this year, just upload a video of them to Instagram or Twitter using #AlternativeCatAwards into one of the following categories:

#PurinaPurrfectTeamwork – Celebrating the bond between cats and their owners working or studying during the lockdown period
#MischievousMoggy – Cats with interesting and playful behaviours that may have performed challenges or been a source of entertainment during lockdown
#SeniorKitizen – Mature cats aged 11 years and above
#PurrfectlyImperfect – Celebrating cats living happy, healthy lives with a disability, health issue or superficial aesthetic deformity
#BestNewcomer – Cats adopted from an animal rescue organisation in 2020

Category winners will be announced on Cats Protection’s social media channels throughout the day on Thursday 17 September 2020.

At the end of the day, the public will be asked to vote in a People’s Choice award for their favourite category winner, to be announced on Wednesday 23 September by cat-loving comedian Bob Mortimer.

The awards are sponsored by Cats Protection’s long-term corporate partner PURINA® and the five category winners will receive a bumper pack of Cats Protection goodies worth £100, with the People’s Choice winner also receiving a pair of tickets to next year’s National Cat Awards at The Savoy in London.

For full terms and conditions, visit www.cats.org.uk/aca

A new home for Lord Eric?

Rescue dog who is afraid of the dark on the lookout for a new home

Lord Eric Longlegs is a current resident of Dogs Trust’s Rehoming Centre in West Calder and he doesn’t mind potential owners knowing he is afraid of the dark!

Currently on the centre’s Home From Home fostering programme, Lord Eric has been enjoying his time with his temporary foster family, however they noticed that he gets anxious going out to the garden when it is dark, unless someone goes with him.

Lord Eric Longlegs got his name after arriving at the rehoming centre more than four months ago. At eight-years-old, he is more than your typical long-legged Greyhound as he is a very sensitive big soul; he loves people, he loves journeys in the car, he loves sleeping on the sofa and he absolutely adores his food.

Stephen Thomson, Home From Home Coordinator at Dogs Trust West Calder, said: “Lord Eric has been with us now since before lockdown began and he hasn’t received much interest from potential owners. As he is such a loving and sensitive boy, we wanted to keep him in a family environment as much as possible, so he could enjoy all the human companionship he is used to.

“One of the reasons having foster carers is so beneficial is because they learn so much about each dogs character and what they are like in a home environment. Dogs staying at the rehoming centre are never usually without a canine carer beside them when out for walks, so it is beneficial for potential owners to know that a dog like Eric isn’t the biggest fan of the dark, so they can fully consider his rehoming needs.

“We would love to find Eric his forever home and he is currently available to meet by appointment, so get in touch with the team at the rehoming centre to find out more.”

The team at Dogs Trust West Calder is also on the lookout for more people to come forward and apply to be foster carers, especially those who don’t have any other pets in the family home.

Lord Eric’s foster carer, Rod, said: “Eric is such a great companion and he has been a real saviour for me during the recent lockdown as he has been staying with me since March.

“It has been a difficult time over the last four months and I’d honestly be lost without Eric, so making sure he doesn’t have to go outside in the dark is the least I can do for him.”

As well as needing a new family who can help him with additional training, to build his confidence, Lord Eric can live with children over the age of 10 and could potentially live with another female Sighthound. He would benefit from a family who has previous experience with his breed and can provide him with a secure garden to explore.

Dogs Trust rehoming centres are currently not open for public browsing but you can still make an appointment to adopt or bring a dog to us.

The charity has set up new processes which include social distancing measures to help keep staff and our visitors safe.

For more information please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/west-calder or call 01506536840

West Lothian Dogs Trust manager celebrates 25th anniversary

Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre manager Susan Tonner celebrates her 25^th year working for the UK’s largest animal welfare charity this month. In that time, Susan has helped secure forever homes for more than 13,000 dogs in and around West Lothian – and sometimes, even further afield.

Susan has ‘led the pack’ at the Bentyhead Rehoming Centre team since 1995, in her role as Centre Manager. Having worked in animal welfare most of her life, Susan’s love for dogs started when she adopted her first rescue dog, a Border Collie named Shep from a local rescue in Edinburgh. Over the years Susan has adopted 17 rescue dogs, most from the West Calder centre, with older canine residents holding a special place in her heart.

Susan said: “I can’t believe it has been 25 years, it feels like yesterday when I first started at the centre; but although it might not feel that long, things have changed a lot in that time.

“When I first started there were three main kennels; we were taking in 250 puppies a year and up to 700 at its peak and that’s when we added a purpose-built puppy unit. There has been a constant look at improving and providing the best facilities for dogs, and that is what I love about my job.

“To look back and see everything you’ve achieved really the best thing about working for Dogs Trust – they always put the dog first.”

When thinking about her fondest memories over the last 25 years, Susan said: “You remember all the emotional things, but mostly it’s all been happy. I always come back to thinking about a pregnant Cavalier called Lou. When she gave birth I ended up having to catch the first puppy, as she was walking and that sort of set up the whole birth from there.

“Lou was lying on her back throughout, while we did all the work for her. She was a lovely dog but was slightly put out by the puppies getting so much attention, that she wanted for herself, and I liked that about her.

“The best part of my job is always being able to find any and every dog its forever home. It’s lovely to help the dogs but also very rewarding to help people who may have to part with their beloved pet and make them feel reassured that we will love and care for their dog like they would.

“It’s important that people feel they can bring their pet to us in their time of need and know we will care and do our utmost for their dog.”

As part of her 25^th anniversary celebration, MSP for West Lothian, Angela Constance, has lodged a motion with Scottish Parliament to recognise Susan’s contribution and commitment to dog welfare in the local community; and to thank her for her continued good work especially at this challenging time.

Angela Constance said: “Dogs Trust at West Calder is well known and highly regarded locally; and this is in large part due to the contribution made by Susan.

“I want to both congratulate and commend Susan for her 25 years of outstanding service to the welfare of animals and of course to the wider West Lothian community; and as her colleagues will testify, she still has a lot more to give.”

To find out more about how you can support Dogs Trust, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk

Vets still carrying out vital work

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), the regulator for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the UK, has released a new framework for veterinary practices, helping them to decide what treatments it is appropriate to carry out safely amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The UK’s veterinary practices are one of the groups of businesses that the UK Government has confirmed can stay open during the pandemic, stating that ‘it is important for business to carry on’.

The new guidance from the RCVS provides a pathway for determining how veterinary services may be provided to the nation’s animals, while prioritising public health and complying with the government’s social distancing advice for both the public and employers.

The guidance, which has been provided to the profession in the form of a flowchart available at www.rcvs.org.uk/coronavirus, allows veterinary professionals to determine which particular treatments and procedures they can carry out under social distancing guidelines, leaving it to their judgement what they actually offer, depending on their facilities, level of staffing and local disease pressures.

Some of its key points are:

Veterinary work that is vital for the maintenance of the UK’s food supplies and food trade – such as ensuring food hygiene standards and supporting the livestock industry – should still be carried out, while observing biosecurity measures;
Veterinary practices should still take steps to provide emergency and critical care for seriously injured or ill animals;
Where feasible and appropriate, veterinary practices can provide consultations for animal owners and their pets remotely;

If cases can be supported while still maintaining social distancing, or if the planned treatment could have animal health and welfare or public health implications if not carried out within the next two months, then these may be carried out. However, the RCVS has recommended to veterinary practices that, alongside social distancing, they put in place further measures to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, including consideration of personal protective equipment and the movement of people from, to and around the practice. The British Veterinary Association (BVA), the representative body for UK veterinary surgeons, has published advice for animal owners on these treatments, including vaccinations, at: www.bva.co.uk/coronavirus/coronavirus-advice-for-animal-owners/

The RCVS has also updated its advice for animal owners on interacting with veterinary practices.

This includes advice not to turn up to practices unannounced, and always to contact the practice in advance so that veterinary staff can assess whether attendance in person is needed or if the consultation can be carried out remotely.

There is additional advice for animal owners who are self-isolating that is in-line with the Government’s ‘stay at home’ guidance for those with possible COVID-19 infections.

https://youtu.be/0_5UWkC4xUY

Dr Niall Connell, President of the RCVS, commented: “During these difficult times we understand that, for many, their beloved pets are a comfort and a solace and that they want to make sure they remain fit and healthy. We know that what might happen if their animal falls ill is a concern for many.

“I would like to reassure the country’s animal owners that veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses are still absolutely committed to ensuring animal health and welfare. However, the number one priority for veterinary practices at the moment is public health, including that of their clients and their own teams.

“As a result, there will be certain limitations on available veterinary services. Practices will not be operating on a ‘business as usual’ basis because they will be trying to keep the amount of face-to-face contact to a minimum.

“We ask that members of the public trust, as we do, the professional judgement of veterinary practices as to what treatments are necessary and what can be safely and appropriately carried out.

“As ever, veterinary professionals are rising to the challenge by working together to find innovative ways of offering veterinary services remotely and, where attendance at a veterinary practice is absolutely necessary, reducing the risk of virus transmission through social distancing measures.

“The vast majority of animal owners have been patient and understanding of the situation, and the efforts their practices are going to, and I would like to thank them for that.”

The Frequently Asked Questions and guidance for animal owners from the RCVS can be found at https://animalowners.rcvs.org.uk/coronavirus.

The flowchart for the veterinary professions to help them navigate how veterinary services can be provided is available at www.rcvs.org.uk/coronavirus

Any further questions should be directed to the RCVS Standards and Advice Team on advice@rcvs.org.uk

Labradors take the lead as UK’s most popular dog breed

Protectivity research has revealed which dog breeds have seen the biggest rise and fall in registration numbers over the last two decades.

The Labrador takes the crown of the most popular dog breed with 35,347 registrations in newly released Kennel Club Club data, overtaking the French Bulldog.
When looking at breed types, utility breeds have seen the biggest increase in registrations, with a 163% rise since 1990.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is revealed to have had the largest increase in registrations, with a 22,217% rise, from just 6 registrations in 1990 to 1,339 in 2019.
Surprisingly, the Yorkshire Terrier has experienced the greatest fall in registration numbers with just 644 registrations in 2019 compared to a huge 24,015 in 1990, as owners are favouring continental breeds over the classic British breeds.

Pet business insurance provider Protectivity has analysed data from The Kennel Club to reveal which dog breeds are the most popular and which have seen the biggest rise and fall in registration numbers in the UK between 1990 and 2019. You can view the piece here.

As a nation of animal lovers, dogs are one of our most popular pets, and with over a quarter of adults owning one, we all have our own favourite breeds. Traditionally, we’ve seen Spaniels, Labradors and Terriers among the more commonly owned breeds, but in recent years we’ve also seen ‘designer’ dog breeds become much more popular, with these posh pups costing over £1000 to buy in some cases.

French Bulldogs lose their spot as the top dog

Looking at the number of registrations in the UK in 2019, the Labrador Retriever comes in as the top breed with 35,347 registrations, overtaking last year’s top breed the French Bulldog, which has had 33,661 registrations. The “Frenchie”, as it’s more affectionately known, has risen to popularity after becoming the breed of choice for celebrities such as the Beckhams, Lady Gaga and Holly Willoughby, amongst others. However, the spike in French Bulldog purchases has also caused the RSPCA to see a 236% increase in the number of this breed entering their care over the last seven years.

The top ten sees our old favourite breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever and Dachshund, but also includes a more surprising entry in the form of the Miniature Schnauzer. Ranked as one of the most ‘average’ dogs by the Royal Veterinary College, the lack of breed-related problems and tolerant nature make the Miniature Schnauzer a good option for any aspiring dog owners, with their smart mustachioed appearance also winning the hearts of many.

The top five most popular dog breeds are:

Rank	Breed	Registrations in 2019
1	Retriever (Labrador)	35,347
2	French Bulldog	33,661
3	Spaniel (Cocker)	21,663
4	Bulldog	9,922
5	Spaniel (English Springer)	8,638

Which breeds have seen the biggest rise and fall in registrations?

The nation’s trendiest dog since 1990 goes to the Dogue de Bordeaux. With a huge 22,217% increase in registrations, the breed has seen a massive surge in popularity, even placing above the French Bulldog which comes in second with a 13,639% increase.

Despite having a long history of working roles including as a guard dog, these gentle giants make a brilliant dog to have around children, with their calm and affectionate nature making them a loyal family member.

However, it’s the biggest fallers that might be more surprising, with the Yorkshire Terrier having seen a 97% decrease in registrations. The number of registrations of the breed have been steadily declining year on year, highlighting how fewer litters are being produced.

This decline may also in part be as a result of the overall increase in registrations for popular European breeds such as the French Bulldog, causing a saturation of more small breeds in the market.

The five breeds with the greatest increase in registrations are:

Rank	Breed	Difference in registrations from 1990 to 2019 (%)
1	Dogue de Bordeaux	22,217%
2	French Bulldog	13,639%
3	Bracco Italiano	5,850%
4	Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois)	2,183%
5	Retriever (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling)	2,125%

The five breeds with the greatest decrease in registrations are:

Rank	Breed	Difference in registrations from 1990 to 2019 (%)
1	Yorkshire Terrier	-97%
2	West Highland White Terrier	-92%
3	Pekingese	-91%
4	Polish Lowland Sheepdog	-88%
5	Cairn Terrier	-88%

Utility breeds see a surge in popularity

When looking at the wider breed types, the change in popularity of breeds can be seen further. With a 163% surge in popularity, Utility breeds have risen by quite some margin, while Pastoral, Toy and Terrier breeds have all experienced declines of over 50%.

Within the Pastoral breed group, over 80% of the breeds analysed have experienced a decline, including larger breeds such as the Old English Sheepdog, Bearded Collie and Shetland Sheepdog. T

his downward trend in larger breeds may also be reflective of the increase in people living in city centre locations, where the urban lifestyle is much more suited to smaller dogs.

Sean Walsh, Marketing Manager from Protectivity Insurance said: “Dogs are some of our most loved pets, as they become deeply embedded and irreplaceable members of the family. Each family or owner will have their own criteria when choosing a dog, in order to ensure that the needs of the breed are met with their lifestyle.

“As a result, it’s interesting to see how our modern lifestyles have created a shift in popularity towards smaller dog breeds, rather than the larger Retrievers and German Shepherds which were once much more popular”

Free pet boarding at LOVE Gorgie Farm during coronavirus crisis

LOVE Gorgie Farm is offering free small pet boarding services to aid all those pet owners who are unwell or need to be admitted into the hospital.

By taking care of the animals free of charge, the beloved urban farm intends to help to those who are unwell or have to be temporarily admitted into the hospital to focus on their health and eliminate any extra stress that having to look after pets may cause.

Although donations are welcomed, LOVE Gorgie Farm will not be charging for pet boarding services during the coronavirus crisis and owners will only have to cover food costs.

Animals eligible for these services will be rabbits and guinea pigs, rodents, reptiles caged birds and poultry.

The farm currently operates as a foodbank for the most vulnerable and delivers free breakfast every morning to the children of the community now that schools are closed.

However, its team is still working behind closed doors in maintaining the site and taking care of the animals.

Following the Government’s advice, LOVE Gorgie Farm decided to temporarily close its doors amid the coronavirus outbreak only after reopening to the public at the end of February.

Lynn Bell, CEO of LOVE Learning, the education and social care charity operating LOVE Gorgie Farm, said: “We understand how stressful it can be to feel like you are neglecting your pets when you can not give them the love and attention that they deserve. However, those feeling unwell during this pandemic must focus their energy on their health and on getting better.

“That’s why if you are sick during these critical times, we want to help take some of this stress away by providing an environment full of love and care to your pet whilst you focus on your own recovery.”

Those wanting to get in touch with the farm should contact gorgie@l-o-v-e.org.uk

Stand-by vets needed at LOVE Gorgie Farm

LOVE Gorgie Farm is looking for volunteers with vet and animal caring experience who wish to assist the farm team in taking care of the animals to get in touch.

Although the farm is currently operating as a foodbank and it is closed to visitors amid coronavirus outbreak, their team made of three is still working behind closed doors to maintain the site and take care of the animals until the situation goes back to normality.

LOVE Gorgie Farm is now looking to build a contingency plan to secure the welfare of the animals by building a database of volunteers who would be able to step in if a scenario was given where any members of the team fell sick or needed to self-isolate.

LOVE Gorgie Farm, which opened its doors to the public last month, decided to temporarily close earlier this week in order to ensure the safety of its visitors, staff and animals.

It is currently operating as a foodbank for the most vulnerable and delivers free breakfast every morning to the children of the community now that schools are closed.

Lynn Bell, CEO of LOVE Learning, education and social care charity operating LOVE Gorgie Farm said: “The fact that we are closed to the public does not mean that the farm is not operational. We still have our dedicated team working very hard to ensure the welfare of farm.

“To do this, it is vital that we have a contingency plan in case anyone in the team falls sick or needs to self-isolate, so that our animals are well looked after.

“We understand that in this particular moment in time there is an enormous pressure on front line workers, and these of course includes veterinarians.

“Taking this into consideration, we are only asking those that would like to volunteer to register with us and if at any point we need their help we will get in touch with them.

“We are overwhelmed by all the support and generosity we have received from the community during these critical times. It has certainly surpassed all our expectations and we are sure that their invaluable help will continue to amaze us as we work through this crisis.”

Those wanting to get in touch with the farm should contact gorgie@l-o-v-e.org.uk