Battersea dogs and cats left unadopted after UK coronavirus lockdown

Around 100 cats and dogs housed at Battersea have been left without new homes after the shelter closed during the UK coronavirus lockdown.

Battersea Cats and Dogs Home has had to suspend efforts to find owners for its rescue cats and dogs after new Government measures to tackle the virus came in on Monday.

Cats and dogs usually face a 25 to 30 day wait at the centre but the lockdown means their stay has been extended indefinitely.

Rob Young, head of centre operations, said: “They’re receiving the same, if not better, care and attention than they normally would do.

He added that although the centre has fewer staff than usual due to the lockdown, they're working hard to give the animals the attention they need.

Offsite walks are now suspended, but the centre has its own paddocks and play areas that staff use with the animals.

Mr Young went on: “All the dogs are taken out at least twice a day, the cats are well looked after and given lots of cuddles.”

The centre is also using brain games to give the animals a mental workout.

The lockdown is believed to be the first time the centre has shut since it was founded in 1860.

The centre has also suspended intake during the lockdown apart from emergency cases - so is expecting a rush when the crisis is over.

Mr Young added: “As soon as we open our doors, we will be taking in lots of animals.”