As some of us take a break from work this Christmas, it’s important to remember those who will be working.

Phil Lewis, RSPCA deputy chief inspector for North Wales has worked many Christmas Days over his long career with the charity.

He wants to reassure people who need the services of the RSPCA that people can still call for help.

“I along with many colleagues across Wales will be working as usual over this festive period - rescuing, caring and rehabilitating those animals who need us the most,” he said.

“Christmas is looking very different this year - but we want to reassure people we are out there responding to any animal emergencies while ensuring the highest standards of public safety. You never quite know what to expect on Christmas Day - but with a lockdown now in place - we may see more calls from those who are out and about walking or exercising near their homes.

“We are also bracing ourselves for a rise in abandoned and neglected animals needing our help and would urge anyone who is struggling to seek help.”

RSPCA frontline rescuers - along with staff who work in animal centres/clinics - are classed as critical (key) workers.

While the charity will continue to respond to emergencies, rehoming, veterinary and charity shops services have been impacted by the latest Covid-19 restrictions.

‘Remote’ rehoming can still take place in Wales through a virtual process. Pets are delivered to new owners in a Covid-compliant manner by RSPCA staff. However, rehoming with cross-border travel to England is not permitted. If you are due to rehome an animal from a centre - please get in touch with staff for guidance.

Charity shops run by the RSPCA have closed along with other non-essential retail.

Lockdown also means pet owners should only seek treatment for animals if it is urgent.

As for animal owners - much like previous guidance - people can walk their dogs, with the Welsh Government reminding walkers to keep at least two metres apart from other people outside your household. They also advise people to keep dogs on leads for this reason.

Livestock and horse owners are allowed to tend to their animals but are being asked to limit their movement outside the home or farm. The RSPCA encourages horse owners to think about buddying up with other owners. Further advice can be found on the Welsh Government website.

The lockdown in Wales has no end date at this moment - but will be reviewed every three weeks.

Many owners are concerned about caring for their pets amid the Covid-19 outbreak.

There’s lots of advice and help on the RSPCA website.

If you are concerned about an animal, please call the RSPCA’s 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.

To donate to the RSPCA, visit www.rspca.org.uk/xmas.