Virtual pet show to help homeless people and their animals
Vets in the Community has launched an online pet show to raise vital funds.
Student-led charity Vets in the Community is holding a virtual pet show to raise much-needed funds for homeless people and their pets during the lockdown.
The charity was established in 2012 by the University of Nottingham's School of Veterinary Medicine and Science. It runs fortnightly clinics in Nottingham city centre, and pets of eligible people can receive free routine treatment such as vaccinations, microchipping and health checks.
Vets in the Community runs entirely on donations, but due to social distancing restrictions, the team is currently unable to hold clinics. Clients are still reliant on the team for pet food and medication, however, and the charity fears the associated economic impact of COVID-19 could lead to a rise in demand for its services.
To help raise funds, Vets in the Community has set up a competition on its Facebook page, inviting owners to send a direct message with pictures and videos of their pets. Owners can submit their entry to one of five categories, including 'grumpiest pet' and 'best smile', and then make a small donation to the charity's Just Giving page.
So far the competition has raised £1,500 - smashing its initial two targets - and has now increased its goal to £1,700. The winner for each category will be selected by a panel of judges that include television vet Julian Norton, and will receive a rosette and certificate in the post.
Vet and Nottingham alumna, Louisa Graham, will be on the judging panel. She said: “I was over the moon to be asked to work with Vets in the Community. Pets are our family and they help us get through the unimaginable, so we can only imagine the support and comfort they provide owners who are homeless.
“Vets in the Community are raising money to keep those pets owned by vulnerable people safe and healthy, and I’m so pleased to be involved. So let’s help raise funds for pets in the community with their virtual pet show. I know I’m keen to enter!”
Julian Norton added: “I’m really delighted to be able to support Vets in the Community. Pets are integral to our lives and can be especially important for people in vulnerable positions. Taking care of their animals can be even more challenging and the work of groups like Vets in the Community is invaluable. Please do what you can to help by supporting this fun, virtual pet show!”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
