The RSPCA is launching an emergency appeal to keep its rescue teams out on the frontline saving animals throughout the coronavirus crisis.

Animal rescuers at the RSPCA have been classed as key workers by the government.

However, the charity needs more funding to be able to keep their teams out rescuing animals from cruelty and neglect.

Last year, RSPCA rescuers dealt with 1,624 welfare incidents in Oxfordshire and they are continuing to save animals on the frontline through this difficult time.

The charity’s centres have been closed to the public, but rescue teams continue to provide care to animals.

The RSPCA is facing financial strain and it is already seeing the effects the coronavirus crisis is having on its fundraising income, while the cost of saving animals and looking after them remains the same.

The teams are continuing an emergency-only service through the lockdown period.

Dermot Murphy Head of the RSPCA Rescue Teams, said: “This is a time of national crisis, and many of us are anxious about the future and our loved ones. This crisis has touched all areas of life and the RSPCA is no different.

"As we all face the biggest challenge of a generation, the RSPCA must continue to be on the frontline, rescuing and caring for the animals who need us most.

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“Our rescuers, vets and nurses have been designated key workers by the Government which means we can carry on saving animals from cruelty and neglect and we rely entirely on generous public donations to deliver our vital services.

“We are facing immense challenges and huge pressures on strained resources, but our hugely dedicated teams are out there dealing with emergencies and our centres continue to deliver vital care to thousands of animals, with more expected in the coming weeks.

“We know that this is a difficult time for everyone but we must still be there for the animals who are suffering, and we are appealing for animal lovers to give whatever they can to help us.”

The RSPCA have received nearly 60,000 calls to the animal cruelty line since the crisis deepened at the beginning of March.

The rehoming of animals has gone on hold because of coronavirus and this will mean the number of animals in the care of the RSPCA will inevitably increase.

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Currently the charity is caring for approximately 3,288 animals, this includes more than 880 dogs, 870 cats, 840 horses, 200 rabbits plus many more domestic and wild rescued animals.

The RSPCA Oxfordshire branch assists the national charity and removes animals from danger or neglect. The charity ensures the animals in its care are restored to full health and socialised, ready for re-homing with suitable adopters.

The RSPCA also helps people on 'means-tested' benefits with some of the costs of neutering and emergency veterinary treatment to make sure animals receive the help they need.

The work of the RSPCA is costly and as a charity it is responsible for raising its own funds. To donate to the RSPCA and help keep emergency services running visit: rspca.org.uk/covid.