By Lynn Basset
The coronavirus pandemic has affected life for us all in many ways, and not least for those running charities. Paws & Claws is a small, local charity run by volunteers, and it has certainly had a big effect on us. We have been serving the Mid Sussex area for the past 43 years, rescuing and rehoming cats and kittens, and of necessity we are at fundraising events all year around, but all these were cancelled this year, and we do not know when or whether they will resume in in 2021.
Life has gone on much as ‘normal’ at Coombe Down (in Sayers Common) with regard to cat care, but with the rescue centre being closed to the public to keep our staff safe. As soon as lockdown lifted, we were able to rehome cats, observing the necessary Covid-19 precautions with those wanting to adopt.
However, we still have many cats in need of forever homes, though sadly no kittens, for which there has been great demand. Many of the cats we have rescued have been strays and so are more suited to a rural setting where they have freedom as well as good shelter and food, and some have been elderly and in need of veterinary care, all of which have resulted in big bills for neutering, blood tests and treatment.
Please ring 01444 831286 if you can offer a rural home, for example a small holding or stables. One cat in particular we are trying to find the right home for is Niko (pictured) age 4 years, who is part Arabian Mau. He is very friendly and sociable with people, but his particular breed can be very territorial so he needs either a rural home with lots of space around, or a home with an enclosed garden, or a catio attached to the house as he does not get on with other cats. Please ring 01444 457758 for more information about him, or general homing enquiries.
We would like to thank all those who have kindly donated money and food during these unprecedented times to help us continue the work to which we are dedicated. www.pawsandclaws-ars.org.uk.