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The number of dogs and cats being rehomed from Battersea Dogs Home has soared since the coronavirus crisis began.

More than 150 dogs and cats were adopted last week (March 16 - 22) which is almost double the figures from the same time last year.

This comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson told everyone to stay at home to prevent the virus spreading.

With millions of people across the city forced to stay indoors many are finally realising their dreams of owning a pet and adoption rates have surged.

Existing pets and those adopted across the capital are thrilled to have their owners unexpectedly at home most of the time.

Battersea’s Head of Operations, Rob Young, said: “We want to thank all these new owners for thinking of rescue pets at such a challenging time."

86 dogs and 69 cats were re-homed from Battersea Dogs Home last week.

(Image: Battersea Dogs Home)

One of the lucky dogs to be rehoused was Tulip, a four-year-old mongrel, who had been at Battersea for almost four months.

Tulip came in as a stray and had some anxieties that the team worked on with her and she has now found a home to get settled in.

Smudge, a ten-year-old black and white cat, has also found a loving new home amid the coronavirus adoptions surge.

A spokesperson for Battersea said: "He will now spend his days rolling around and giving his new human friends all his affection."

Concern about staffing numbers and government advice has led the Home to close their branches.

Young said: “All three of our Battersea centres are now closed to the public, but many of our animals are now in loving homes or out on temporary foster with our staff and volunteers. Battersea are still caring for around 100 animals at our three centres and working hard to ensure each and every dog and cat continues to get the treatment, care, love, play and interaction they need.

(Image: Battersea Dogs Home)





Young also had advice for people still hoping to rehome dogs or cats.

He said: “Those wishing to rehome a dog or cat are welcome to fill out a rehoming application on our website and, as soon as we’re able, we’ll be reopening and working to continue finding new homes for our wonderful animals.

“In the meantime, if you’d like to support Battersea, please consider making a donation towards the care of our dogs and cats by visiting donate.battersea.org.uk.”

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Have you been affected by coronavirus in your part of London? If so, email charlie.jones@reachplc.com



