The Isle of Wight RSPCA has launched an appeal to see it through the Covid-19 crisis.

With its charity shops still closed and business at the Bohemia Corner Anmimal Home at Godshill for lodging pets hit by travel restrictions, revenue for the charity has plummeted.

Though demand for services remains, the charity has been unable to generate income.

The charity is therefore launching an appeal for emergency funding to help it to continue to provide its animal welfare services.

“Like other charities, we are seeing a demand for our services at a time when our ability to generate income is very low,” said Suzanne Pugh, IW RSPCA branch manager.

“Without a doubt our area of greatest need is monetary donations to cover costs such as medicines, vaccinations and surgeries. Financial donations in a crisis allow us to use it where it is most needed for the animals.” Suzanne Pugh.

“Many people choose to donate products for animals throughout the year and, through this much-appreciated generosity, our food stocks are now currently very high which means we no longer require some animal foods.

"If you were considering donating food, as an alternative please consider donating the cost of the product instead.”

Suzanne said: “Activity may be restricted in some areas but here at the centre we continue to provide daily animal care. Life goes on for those animals who rely on us and there is a cost involved in providing that support.

“Just last week for example, we had to take four of our dogs to the mainland for emergency veterinary treatment.

"Though we get great support from Wightlink and are in partnership with an RSPCA medical facility on the mainland, there is still a cost to this sort of animal care.

“It won’t stop us admitting animals who require medical and surgical treatment, but we have to find the money for their care.”

Though affiliated to the national RSPCA, the Island organisation is stand-alone and must raise its own funds to provide its animal adoption and welfare services.

“Throughout the Covid-19 period there are still domestic and wild animals that depend on us,” Suzanne said.

“We know it has been a difficult time for everyone, including our staff, but we really need some financial assistance.

“As this crisis intensifies animals need your help more than ever and we would ask anyone who can make a donation to do so via the donation button on our website www.rspca-iowbranch.org.uk or call 01983 840287 or Text RSPCAIOW to 70470 donate any amount. ”