Amid the concern of an imminent lockdown, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home saw adoption rates soar.
In the days and weeks leading up to the coronavirus crisis being labelled a pandemic and citizens being told to remain indoors, many Britons took the opportunity to safeguard part of their sanity by adopting a cat or a dog. (Featured image: @battersea)
In just one week (March 16–22), more than 150 animals were adopted from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. That’s more than double the number from the same week in the previous year.
Although a good time to have adopted a pet since owners are able to spend more time at home and help settle their new family member in, new owners have been cautioned that this is not something temporary. An animal adopted must be for life, and not just for lockdown.
Day 1 of working from home with your significant other vs Day 2… 😅 pic.twitter.com/QyEpe38ksd
— Battersea (@Battersea_) March 18, 2020
Head of Operations at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Rob Young, has thanked new owners for adopting a pet at such a challenging time and also explained that despite the three Battersea centres being closed, ”those wishing to re-home a dog or cat are welcome to fill out a rehoming application on our website and, as soon as we’re able, we’ll be reopening and working to continue finding new homes for our wonderful animals.”
In other words, I’m afraid you’re going to have to survive lockdown without a furry friend. However, the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is accepting donations while they continue to care for the approximate 100 animals in their three centres.
But in the meantime, why not check out some of the happy little faces awaiting your visit.
Keen to meet them all? Then browse Battersea’s dog gallery (and cat gallery!) to find a cutie to fall in love with, and think of all the ways they could brighten your days once we’re let back outside.