A HOME for abandoned animals has made an urgent appeal for help as it faces a catastrophic loss of funds.

The Gables Dogs and Cats Home has more than 100 unwanted pets at its centre which it continues to care for. But with no income coming in from boarding or fundraising events, the charity is faced with a shortfall of more than £50,000 between now and June.

’From the middle of March until the end of June, Gables will lose at least £25,000 in boarding income, £6,000 raised through animal adoptions and £5,000 from shop sales,’ a spokesperson said.

’We also estimate we will lose at least £12,000 in funds that would have been raised at events.’

Gables says it is committed to looking after all the animals currently in its care on and off site, but the Government restrictions have prevented it from rehoming or fostering any animals.

’This means that the number of available pens is limited while the number of animals needing help in our local community is set to rise over the next few months. Sadly the current Coronavirus pandemic won’t stop animals being abused or neglected.’

Gables staff have been trying to keep everybody’s spirits high by creating fun videos and sharing their daily activities via Facebook Live streams, in the hope of making the local community smile by giving them an insight in to what goes on behind the scenes.

Claire Sparkes, general manager said: ’I have been at Gables for 13 years and have never known a situation such as this. We have faced fires, snow blizzards, power cuts and numerous breakdowns but have never experienced financial hardship on this scale before.

’Fortunately we have an incredibly dedicated team of staff working here, who have been designated key workers by the Government. They are working tirelessly to care for our animals as well as generate funds wherever possible. We also have a fantastic group of volunteers who we are missing greatly and we know would be here with us if they could.

’We appreciate that this is a very difficult time for everyone but any gift, large or small, would make a significant difference to the work we do and will help to protect our future.’

Anyone that could contribute to the ‘Coronavirus Crisis Appeal’ should call 01752 331602 or visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/coronaviruscrisis to donate online.