RSPCA centres planned for UK pet stores
Image: Gavin Grant and Nick Wood
The RSPCA has announced plans to open several adoption centres in Pets at Home stores across England and Wales.
The second of these centres opened on Friday, May 10 in Friern Barnet in London. Pets at Home CEO Nick Wood and RSPCA chief executive Gavin Grant were present to officially open the centre.
Mr Grant said: "I'm excited by the prospect of more rescued pets being re-homed and many more people being educated about better animal care and welfare."
The centre includes a living area intended to give customers a relaxed setting to meet pets and seek advice on pet care and adoption.
It will house up to four cats and four rabbits, and dogs in need of re-homing will also be brought in at weekends. Furthermore, RSPCA staff will provide information about other animals available for adoption in the local area.
The two organisations plan to collaborate on promotional work aimed at providing owners with advice on the dietary and welfare needs of rabbits and other small pets.
Speaking at the opening, Mr Wood said: "We’ve been working hard to develop Pets at Home and RSPCA joint branded pet care literature and ensure customers are making the right decision when introducing a new pet to the family.
"The new adoption centre in Friern Barnet will be followed by several other exciting projects over the next few years."
Image credit: RSPCA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
