Zoo venue for rescue and rehoming day

Belfast Zoo was the backdrop for a rescue and rehoming day recently, sponsored by Agria Pet Insurance.

The purpose of the day was to initiate conversations and action that might help these organisations with the challenges that they currently face in Northern Ireland.

A good number of large and small rescue and rehoming groups attended the event, which was opened by Susan Cunningham, president of the NIVA. Susan provided an overview of some of the many issues facing the sector and commended some of the excellent work that is currently being undertaken.

The many issues facing rescue and rehoming organisations in Northern Ireland were well aired during the day-long event at Belfast Zoo.

NIVA president and event speaker, Susan Cunningham makes a point during the discussions at the zoo.

Many of the issues currently impacting the rescue and rehoming sector were discussed during the conference.

Speakers: Linda Frew, senior zookeeper, Belfast Zoo; Susan Cunningham, Cedar Grove Vets and NIVA president and Karen Green, Agria rehoming manager.

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Among the topics covered were vets fees, illegal puppy farming, brachycephalic breeds, welfare standards, public attitudes and funding coordination.

All agreed that a coordinated approach was needed to help progress many of the issues identified.

The workshops that followed were helpful and produced a starting point for further conversations and actions. Susie Hill from Agria and the Agria rehoming and rescue team, later said that they had been delighted to be part of these first steps. A follow up event is planned for later in the year.