RSPCA Victoria said it remained committed to helping Victorians and their animals during the coronavirus outbreak.
However, is has announced some changes to operations aimed at protecting the health and safety of its customers, animals and staff.
In the interests of everybody’s health and safety, RSPCA Victoria is asking members of the public to respect quarantine and hygiene protocols and be mindful of social distancing instructions when visiting its sites.
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When considering the implications of COVID-19, RSPCA Victoria chief executive officer Liz Walker said the organisation would continue as normal in the fight to end animal cruelty.
“While we continue our efforts to find new forever homes for the many domestic pets in our care, we are changing the way some of our services will run,” Dr Walker said.
“We’re still open for business, but we’re adapting the way we do things to manage both staff and customer wellbeing and safety.
“That includes the introduction of bookings that allow potential adopters to make an appointment prior to coming into our shelters.
“Some of our regional centres may appear shut as we are changing access for the public, but rest assured we are still open for business.
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“We encourage interested adopters to call their local shelter ahead of time to make a booking.
“And as usual, all the animals we have available for adoption can be viewed on our website,” Dr Walker said.
RSPCA Victoria is operating as follows and thanks the community for its understanding and patience during this time:
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Animal cruelty reports and our Inspectorate
Inspectors are continuing to investigate animal cruelty reports while taking care to adhere to strict health, safety and social distancing guidelines.
Cruelty reports can be made via the normal channels. Submit an online animal cruelty report or if an animal’s life is at immediate risk, phone (03) 9224 2222 so an Inspector can be notified right away.
Adoptions
Residents of Benalla Rural City who are interested in adopting a pet can phone RSPCA Wangaratta on 5722 8744.
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