In these uncertain and frankly scary times it’s been heart-warming to see some of the ways that people have used their time to help others. Here Tammie O’leary explains why she wanted to help the amazing StreetVet charity. Please help this very worthy cause if you can, every little helps.

As with many others I have been removed from my normal work routine and I have been on furlough. During this time I have had my two children to entertain (and I do attempt to educate them!). I wanted to offer some value to a charity so I volunteered my time to StreetVet, a charity that assists those homeless individuals who have pets by their side by offering veterinary care and advice for free. I have been able to assist remotely and have met some amazing people with similar ethics.

StreetVet was born in 2016, inspired by the incredible bond between a homeless man and his dog. Victims of the UK homelessness epidemic often have scant support, except for, in a growing number of cases, the companionship of their pets. StreetVet vets and nurses, working with outreach organisations, are out in multiple communities weekly. Since inception they have helped care for over 100’s street dogs (some cats and rabbit). They have vaccinated and microchipped; treated for fleas and protected against lungworm; prescribed pain relief and helped fight infections; performed surgeries; and sometimes just sat and listened.

I thought as well as offering time I could raise some funds. So many events have been cancelled or postponed so charities could benefit from that extra assistance right now. After many years of not running I decided it was time to face the trainers and get exercising. It has fitted in well with our current lifestyle so I have built up my fitness and I have entered the Shrewsbury half marathon in October. I set myself a target of £1500 and people have been generous in this challenging period. If I can hit or ideally exceed this target StreetVet and their clients will benefit greatly. If you can help by sharing the Just Giving post or donate, no matter how small it will be a massive help to a charity that helps animals and people in equal measure.

I understand that it is a time of uncertainty but due to so many events being cancelled charities are massively down on expected donations. I therefore have set up a fundraising page;

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tammie-o-leary