Animal charities join together for coronavirus advice

Blue Cross is pleased to be part of a coalition of animal welfare organisations who have joined forces to create clear advice for pet owners during the coronavirus pandemic.

The coalition of charities and industry groups had grown concerned about conflicting and poor information which is leaving owners confused and anxious and animals potentially at risk.

Together, we’ve produced a series of colourful graphics giving tips and advice on how to look after your pets while you protect yourself, how to care for pets while social distancing or in self-isolation and how to help others look after their animals. 

We’re urging pet-owners to share the easy to understand graphics across their networks. 

Chris Laurence, chair of the Canine and Feline Sector Group, said: “We have come together to reassure people that there is no evidence that pets can get sick from coronavirus so not to panic or worry. We have also written some clear and simple tips about how to continue to care for them through this crisis.

“Like many others, the animal welfare sector is facing huge strain, with reduced staffing, loss of volunteers and pressure on resources. We need to reassure owners with good advice so they can continue to look after their pets and this will help prevent rescue centres being overwhelmed at this challenging time.”

The full list of organisations in the coalition is as follows:

ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council), ADCH (Association of Dogs and Cats Homes, Battersea, Blue Cross, BSAVA (British Small Animals Vet Association), BVA (British Vet Association) Cats Protection, Dogs Trust, PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, PFMA, (Pet Food Manufacturing Organisation) PIF, (Pet Industry Federation) RSPCA, Scottish SPCA, Canine and Feline Sector Group and The Kennel Club.