Chester Zoo shares heartwarming message thanking fans for 'saving the zoo'
Zoos are set to reopen from Monday 15th June
Last updated 10th Jun 2020
After the news that zoos and safari parks across the UK can open from Monday 15th June, as long as they follow social distancing rules, Chester Zoo have sent out a heartwarming message on social media, thanking customers for 'saving their zoo'.
Sharing a cute photo of a baby elephant, the message reveals the zoo have suffered 'severe financial damage' during lockdown, but it thanks users for their kind donations and adoptions.
It reads, '🙌 YOU DID IT! 🙌 A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive much longer... BUT YOUR VOICES HAVE BEEN HEARD! 📣
'We have JUST received the news that we’ll be able to open safely from 15 June. Your support has been incredible. Every kind donation, every word of support. It really is making a HUGE difference.
'The fight isn’t over for us just yet. But, for now, we want to celebrate this huge moment of relief with you.
'There’s no denying that we have suffered severe financial damage over the past three months and the road to recovery will be long and uncertain. But, your incredibly kind donations, animal adoptions and memberships are giving us a vital lifeline.
'Over the next few days we’ll be letting you know when and how you’ll be able to book a ticket to visit. Please bear with us while we do this.
'From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. You are SAVING OUR ZOO ❤️'. (sic)
The post has so far attracted a lot of comments, with many animal lovers expressing their thoughts about the reopening.
One user commented, 'Don’t think I’ve ever been so emotional or happy about a place re-opening! The public did and amazing job of getting this out there and let’s hope it continues and we carry on supporting this world leading zoo!! 💜 See you soon!!' (sic)
Another wrote, 'Never cried so much as I did reading this 🥺😭❤️ Cannot explain how much we love and adore 'our Zoo'. We've been Members for over 5 years and this is literally our second home. As someone who suffers from anxiety and depression, CZ is my absolute happy place, a day here makes everything good again, and all the bad thoughts go away. We're so unbelievably happy right now ❤️❤️❤️'. (sic)
A third added, 'Oh my goodness, this is the best news. I have literally just commented on friends post how we can’t believe that shops can open but you can’t. We can’t wait to book a ticket and help support you as much as we can. Xx' (sic)
If you would like to contribute to Chester Zoo, you can donate on their JustGiving page right here.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is set to announce to the nation on Wednesday 10th June further easing of the current lockdown, with zoos and safari parks set to be able to open their doors from Monday 15th June.
Now check out how to keep your pets safe in the sun:
Dermoscent SunFREE, £15.25
According to their website, SunFREE 'efficiently protects the vulnerable or fragile skin of dogs and cats against UVA and UVB, while providing reinforced hydration. SunFREE is easy to use thanks to its texture which is water resistant, non-greasy and non-sticky.'
Petkin SPF15 Sunscreen Spray, £4.09
Suitable for dogs only, 'this spray is the fastest and most convenient way to apply either to select areas or all over,' says Petkin. 'Ideal for thicker coats. Creates a nice cool, fine mist that won't frighten the dog.'
Petkin Doggy Sunscreen Wipes SPF 15, £4
'Doggy Sunwipes provides the fastest, most convenient way to protect your dog from the suns harmful ultraviolet rays when ever outdoors,' writes Pets at Home. 'Simply wipe on anytime for instant sun protection.' This product is only suitable for dogs.
Cool Club Elastofit Ice Blue Dog Vest, from £13
'This Ice Vest is lightweight and designed to keep your pet cool and comfortable on hot days or when on the go,' writes Pets at Home. 'This cooling vest will help keep your pooch cool for up to 6 hours and helps protect them against UV and heat related illness. Simply soak the vest in cold water and wring out. Repeat once the water has evaporated.'
Cool Club Pet Ice Cooling Dog Bandana, from £5
The same premise as the cooling vest, this bandana is used to cool your dog down in the heat. 'The ultimate lightweight, ice-cooling bandana that gives your dog a feeling of long-lasting comfort on hot days or on the go,' writes Pets at Home.
VavoPaw Sun Cap, £12.99
According to VavoPaw, this cap is 'suitable for dogs, cats and other small-breed animals. 'We selected premium eco-friendly Oxford fabric to make this hat soft, durable and breathable, and ensure a safe wearing experience for your pets,' the company states. 'Two holes at the top let your dog's ears breathe and move in a natural way. The chin strap is adjustable to fit your pet's head.'
Petkin Sunscreen Stick, £5.25
Petkin says this product - which is only suitable for dogs - is 'ideal for applying thicker areas of extra protection on the most delicate areas such as nose, ears, muzzle, pink areas and any spots where skin is particularly exposed.
'Extensive research has shown that SPF15 is the highest factor of sunscreen recommended for dogs without causing irritation to the skin,' the company states. 'The formula has a smell reminiscent of sun lotion for humans.'
Filtabac Antibacterial Cream with Sunblock, £10.08
Combining skin protection for wounds and sunburn while doubling as a suncream itself, FiltaBac considers this cream the ultimate animal protection. Suitable for dogs and horses, the company advises seeking vet advice before using it on cats.
Dog Rash Vest, £17
This dog rash vest by DforDog 'provides 50+ UV sun protection as well as being used to protect tummies from grass, nettles and other irritants.'
'The lightweight fabric also makes Rash Vest fast drying, odour resistant and easy to wash,' DforDog states. 'The fabric is breathable so your dog doesn't overheat from wearing the garment. Your dog can go swimming in the vest too.'