AN APPEAL has been issued to kind hearted Peeblesshire residents to volunteer and help raise funds for abused, abandoned and injured pets.

The Scottish SPCA is urging locals across all the Tweeddale towns and villages to get involved in its Rehoming Week, which runs from Monday, May 7 until Sunday, May 13, by joining in with organised street collections and more.

Diane Aitchison, Edinburgh Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre manager said: “Last year our centre took in and found loving new homes for 499 neglected, mistreated and unwanted pets and 2018 is proving to be just as challenging.

“During Rehoming Week we have opportunities to fundraise throughout Scotland.

“It’s a great opportunity to spend time with friends, or to come along and meet new people as part of our Supporter Groups, and help make a real difference to pets in Scotland.

“Door-to-door fundraising can be carried out between the Monday and Friday of Rehoming Week, while people can hold street collections in their local communities on the Saturday.

“You can volunteer with friends, or join your local supporter group. Even if someone can only spare an hour or two, their time and efforts would be hugely appreciated.

“Giving up your spare time to help raise funds is an extremely kind gesture and one which will be of huge benefit to our work.”

Scotland’s animal welfare charity rescues animals and nurses them back to health before finding them loving new homes or releasing them back into the wild.

Staff also investigate abuse across Scotland, and are the only animal charity in the UK recognised as a reporting agency to the Crown Office.

Their workers support the welfare of all animals - domestic, farm and wildlife - and are continually deepen welfare expertise through a range of work and research with various partners.

Anyone who would like to help raise funds for the Scottish SPCA or join their local supporter group can contact the fundraising team by calling 03000 999 999 (and selecting option 4) or by sending an email to fundraising@scottishspca.org.