Watford MP Dean Russell is urging people to help animals by volunteering as RSPCA foster carers or helping out in the charity’s shops.
As part of his ‘Put Dean on your Team’ campaign, Mr Russell helped out at the RSPCA’s charity shop in Watford High Street on Monday 5 December, and thanked the team for the ‘fantastic work’ it does.
He said: “Obviously most people will know that you can donate, volunteer or even rehome a forever home for animals.
"But one of the things that really came to light that I had not heard of before was the role of foster carers for animals.”
A spokesperson for RSPCA Middlesex NW & S Hertfordshire Branch said: “We would like to thank Mr Russell for visiting us. It was wonderful to show him round the shop and talk to him about the issues we face and how animal-lovers in Watford might be able to help us.
“At the moment, it’s really difficult finding enough volunteers to help out in our shops, and that has a direct impact on the number of animals we can assist. We’re also looking for more foster carers to look after pets while they are waiting to find their forever home.
“And as the cost of living crisis deepens, we are getting more and more requests for assistance to rehome animals as well as requests for financial assistance from pet owners - which we do offer subject to eligibility. We’re also on the hunt for a suitable site to enable us to rescue more animals, but we’re facing challenges both in terms of the high costs in this area and planning changes.
“We really appreciate Mr Russell’s kind words and his support for the RSPCA Watford Branch and our shop.”
To find out more about volunteering for the RSPCA in Watford, please visit our website
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.
