With the nation now in phase one of lockdown measures easing, and with the R-number continuing to reduce, local animal welfare charity Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home have announced that they will start rehoming dogs and cats again on Monday 15 June.

The Home had to close its doors to rehoming on 23 March when the nation went into lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although the charity wasn’t able to find new homes for the animals in their care, their front-line staff were still working hard to care for the many dogs and cats at the centre. In addition, the Home has continued to take in stray, lost and abandoned dogs and cats throughout the pandemic.

With social distancing measures still fully in place, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home have had to completely overhaul their rehoming process. Now, all initial rehoming enquiries will be taken via an online form, followed by a telephone interview for people who may be a match for an animal. Only then if the interview is successful will the person be invited down to meet the dog or cat of their choice and discuss their rehoming further in a socially distant and safe manner. Walk in visits will not be allowed whilst social distancing measures remain in place.

Nonnie Kent, Rehoming Operations Manager said “We are so excited to be able to start rehoming again on Monday. There are so many amazing dogs and cats ready and waiting for their forever Homes and we know that there are so many people who are waiting to rehome.”

“Whilst many people are spending a lot more time at home at the moment, we would strongly encourage anyone who is thinking about bringing a new pet into their life to carefully think through what their lifestyle will be post-pandemic and how a dog or cat will fit into that. We know just how much joy a pet can bring and we want to make sure we find that perfect match.”

In advance of rehoming opening back up, the charity has released a new film featuring some of the people who have rehomed a pet from Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home before the pandemic hit, sharing their rehoming experiences. To see the film visit edch.org.uk/rehome/our-stories/ 

Rehoming opens again from Monday and all information can be found at edch.org.uk