It’s not only looking after humans that is classed as key work during the coronavirus crisis – roles that involve caring for animals are also on the key workers list.

One such job is held by Lauren Calvert, animal care assistant at the RSPCA Preston and District Branch.

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Lauren and her colleagues have remained busy during the pandemic, looking after animals in need and trying to ensure money is still coming into the self-funded branch.

Lauren said: “The work we do at our Ribbleton centre is essential, so we were relieved to be classed as key workers. We are still there each and every day to care for the animals in need and try to give them the best life possible.

“We have three dogs currently available for adoption, and we spend individual time with them doing training activities and going in the sensory garden and agility field, which they really enjoy.

“At the centre, hand hygiene is always very important, but we have increased this even more so, and staff are social distancing.”

While Lauren and her colleagues are still working at the centre, it has been closed to the public, as have the branch’s charity shops in Penwortham, Longridge and Chorley.

Lauren said: “We have shut the centre and the charity shops in the interests of public health, but this does mean that a lot of the donations we would normally receive have stopped.

“As a local branch we depend on local donations to help cover the cost of the care of the animals, as well as food for the animals.

“We are taking these measures so we can continue providing help and welfare to the animals most in need at this unprecedented time, but as a self-funded charity we do need donations to help keep us going.”

Read more: New RSPCA charity shop opening in Penwortham

To help the difficult situation, Lauren is planning virtual fundraising activities including a quiz, a coffee morning, an auction, and a pet show.

She said: “We’re hoping these virtual events will encourage people to help us raise money during this tough time from the comfort of their own homes.

“We are struggling for donations with the current coronavirus situation and would be extremely appreciative of anything people can give right now!”

To find out more about the fundraising activities, follow the RSPCA Preston and District Facebook page. To donate, visit Virgin Money Giving or JustGiving.

Read more: Preston urged to take part in the Big PNE Sleep In

Are you a supporter of the RSPCA in Preston? What do you think of the work they are doing? Let us know in the comments.