Animal rescuers deal with more than 300 incidents in Derbyshire during lockdown

Animal rescuers at the charity have been designated key workers by the government but vital funding is needed to help the RSPCA’s frontline staff continue this crucial work.

RSPCA rescuers have recorded vlogs to show what it’s like working on the frontline, in RSPCA animal hospitals and in animal centres during lockdown.

Since the government announced the lockdown on Monday, March 23, the charity has received more than 66,000 calls from members of the public across the UK and in Derbyshire the RSPCA has dealt with 381 incidents.

Among the animals rescued in Derbyshire since the start of the lockdown include four baby foxes who had been separated from their mother and two badger cubs found on an industrial estate.

All the animals are now being cared for at wildlife rehabilitators until they can be released back into the wild.

Dermot Murphy, chief inspectorate officer, said: “Despite the lockdown, there are still thousands of animals which need our help.

“As designated key workers, our frontline rescuers are still out and about rescuing animals in urgent need of care. The coronavirus crisis hasn't put a stop to animal suffering and these figures show there are still many animals out there that need rescuing.

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