On October 4th, animal lovers worldwide come together to celebrate World Animal Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness and championing the welfare of animals around the globe. It's a day when we reflect on the importance of protecting and caring for our furry, feathered, and finned friends. In this blog post, we'll shine a spotlight on World Animal Day and the vital role organisations like Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital play in safeguarding the welfare of wildlife. We'll also explore how you can contribute to Brent Lodge to ensure that they can continue their lifesaving work beyond just this special day.
The Significance of World Animal Day
World Animal Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's an international movement that seeks to create a better future for animals everywhere. This day is dedicated to recognising the value and significance of all animals in our lives and advocating for their welfare. The UK is one of the most nature depleted countries in the world and despite nature struggling against all odds to survive, more than one in seven native species face extinction and more than 40% are in decline. World Animal Day encourages individuals, communities, businesses and organisations to come together to protect animals and promote compassionate and sustainable practices for the future.
Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital | A Lifeline for Animals
Nestled in the heart of West Sussex, UK, Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife. Established over 50 years ago the hospital's mission is clear: to treat, rehabilitate, and release wild animal casualties back into their natural habitats. Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital admits a range of casualties, each a testament to the challenges wildlife face on a daily basis.
Many arrive with injuries stemming from everyday human activities: birds of prey suffering from collisions with vehicles, hedgehogs wounded by garden equipment, and garden birds affected by habitat loss. Some casualties are orphaned due to nest disturbances or abandonment. Declining populations and environmental changes have exacerbated their plight. These animal casualties, be they owls, foxes, or pigeons, find refuge at Brent Lodge, where dedicated staff tirelessly work to mend their wounds, nurse them back to health, and release them to thrive once more in the wild.
Daily Challenge of Running a Busy Wildlife Hospital
While the commitment to caring for animals is unwavering, the financial aspect of running an animal hospital 365 days a year is a formidable challenge. Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital requires significant resources to provide round-the-clock care, medical treatment, and proper facilities for its animal patients. It costs over £300,000 to keep the wildlife hospital open and animals cared for. It costs a staggering £700 a day to operate this vital work. Costs and expenses such as veterinary care, lighting, heating, medications, food, and animal care are included, however, there are also additional costs associated with keeping the hospital and charity running smoothly and well maintained.
Supporting Brent Lodge | Beyond World Animal Day
On World Animal Day, we celebrate our love for animals and our shared responsibility to protect wildlife. One meaningful way to show your support is by contributing to the ongoing mission of organisations like Brent Lodge. By making a donation, you help ensure that their doors remain open every day of the year, not just on special occasions.
Your donation could make a world of difference!
A donation of £10 - could provide a life saving assessment to a sick bird: Often the first few hours are vital to their survival.
A donation of £50 could help feed hungry bellies: Funds go towards providing nutritious meals for animals, a crucial aspect of their recovery and well-being.
A donation of £100 could help support a dedicated team of animal carers: Your contribution supports the dedicated team of professionals and volunteers who work tirelessly to care for animals.
A donation of £500 or more could maintain hospital facilities: Donations help maintain the hospital's infrastructure and build new enclosures, ensuring that animals receive the care and comfort they require during their stay.
Partnering for an Animal-Friendly Future
In an inspiring collaboration that demonstrates the power of corporate social responsibility on the natural world, Evergreen Insurance Services have pledged to donate a percentage of their policy commissions to dozens of animal or environmental charities including Brent Lodge. Evergreen, a forward-thinking insurance agency, is built on a story about a personal mission and a real passion for the environment. Founder, David Gardiner, is the driving force behind Evergreen, he is as passionate about providing great insurance solutions for clients as he is about helping to raise much needed funds to protect the precious environment.
By donating a portion of their policy commissions, Evergreen is directly contributing to Brent Lodge's ongoing efforts to protect and care for wildlife. Why not consider making an ethical choice when next choosing your policy.
World Animal Day is a time to celebrate our bond with all animals and recommit our responsibility to their welfare. As we mark this special day, let us not forget the organisations like Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital and Evergreen Insurance Services, who work tirelessly to protect and care for animals in need. Remember that your support, whether on World Animal Day or any other day, can make a lasting impact on their mission. By donating to Brent Lodge, you become an essential part of their efforts to ensure that animals receive the care and compassion they deserve, making the world a better place for wildlife.
By Asha Park
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