By Isle of Wight Observer
The RSPCA IW is offering free welfare clinics for cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs to help pet-owners across the Island.
The drop-in sessions run throughout the year and provide practical help and advice on everyday care, including grooming, teeth and ear checks, nail clipping, and scent gland cleaning. All clinics take place at the RSPCA’s Island Animal Centre, near Rookley, between 11am and 3pm, with no need to book in advance.
The service is free to use, although a suggested donation of £3 per animal is welcomed to help cover the cost of running each session.
Carrie-Anne Turrell, who heads the RSPCA’s small animal team, said Island pet owners value the clinics, particularly for tasks such as nail clipping which can feel daunting at first. She added that the team is always happy to answer questions and support owners with the care of their pets.
Georgina Davies, who leads cat care at the animal centre, said the charity is pleased to be offering its first cat welfare clinic this month, providing simple health checks and advice on health, diet, and behaviour.
Low-cost microchipping is also available at £10 per animal, with staff able to check and update contact details on the national database.
The cat welfare clinic takes place on Sunday, January 25, with further sessions planned for April, July, and October. The next rabbit and guinea pig clinic is on Sunday, February 15, with further dates to be fixed in May, August, and November.
Full details are available on the RSPCA Isle of Wight website at iw.observer/rspca-iw.
Mal Butler