Exhausted animal lovers at a wildlife rescue center claim that the rising expense of living is forcing them to close their doors to new admissions.
The financial crisis has placed Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue, which is managed entirely by volunteers, in a precarious position, according to the organization.
The financial crisis has also caused a decline in donations.
The center, which treats sick and injured ducks, foxes, mice, birds, and deer among other creatures, said in a heartfelt statement shared on social media that volunteers have been working extra shifts at their regular jobs to pay its bills.
It said that, despite not moving or rehoming the animals now in its care, it just cannot afford to take in any more.
According to a spokesman, several rescue centers had to close due to a decline in donations, and they were “fighting hard to escape a similar fate.”
‘We’re all feeling the bitter sting of rising living costs,’ they said.
‘Electricity, petrol, and bills, in general, are so much higher than they used to be and understandably, we’ve had a massive drop in donations because of this.
‘We’ve seen huge increases in the price of everything needed for the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife.
‘Feed has risen by roughly 70 to 90 per cent, prices are through the roof – the amount of travelling we do daily is unreal.
‘Powering all the incubators and specialist equipment, medications, bedding, a good month can be over £2,000, throw in vet and unexpected bills and you’re sometimes double that.
‘Until we’re in a better place with funds, we simply cannot afford to take in any further admissions.
‘We’re only volunteers and we cannot be running a rescue, which is a massive task on its own.
‘And taking on extra shifts at paid workplaces just to keep the rescue open, we’re exhausted.’
They said that one of the center’s managers had even stepped out of retirement to help keep it running, but due to the demands of the position, he or she became unwell.
‘Our hearts break for the future wildlife causalities that we wish we could afford to take in,’ the center added, expressing optimism that this wasn’t the last.
They have invited people to donate to the organization in the interim by visiting their fundraising page.
Social media was used by supporters to express their sorrow about the temporary closure of the center.
“Done hope every donation helps you get back on your feet,” said Nikki Franks.
I’ve set up a monthly payment; maybe you’ll get enough money to keep doing the wonderful work you do. I’ll also share the post, Jayne Riley said.
Sorry to hear this, Lloyd North remarked. I’ve done what little I can with a monthly gift, and I hope your financial condition gets better enough so that you can continue providing this wonderful service. Best of luck.
You can’t close, Jo Crolla admonished. You must help the animals. I’ve established a monthly. I’m sorry it can’t be more, but perhaps we can keep you going as a group. Best of luck!
“Have established a monthly donation and will share this message to inspire others to support the amazing work you all do,” Alemap Oedsab wrote.