Virbac Staff 'cat-napped' In Support Of The RSPCA Halifax

> (left to right) Cat Curtis and Chantelle Smith during their 'cat-napping' Two Virbac staff spent four hours in a cat pen on Sunday 3 August, raising £1,200 for the RSPCA, Halifax and Huddersfield District Branch. The 'cat-napped' pair, Veterinary Advisor 'Cat' Curtis and Territory Manager Chantelle Smith, were locked in a double cat pen with 18 other people, kittens and cats for the duration of their detention and are currently on track to win the 'Cat-napped' trophy for raising the most in sponsorship. The fundraising challenge was held to mark the tenth anniversary of the Andy Thompson Memorial Cattery opening at the branch. Chantelle explained: "Cat and I have worked closely with the team at Halifax and Huddersfield branch for several years and are consistently impressed by the dedication and care shown by the whole team towards the animals in their care. "Many of those cat-napped with us were dressed up as cats so we thought we'd be a bit different and both went as Minnie Mouse instead. This definitely attracted a lot of attention! She added: "I'm more of a dog person and, until Sunday, had never met a moggy which didn't want to use me as a scratching post. Now, I feel differently and am even trying to get my mum to adopt one of the kittens! " Overall, the experience was one we won’t forget and took place in a spirit of great camararderie and fun. We were very happy to be able to put something back and to show our support for the fantastic work they do. We set ourselves a target of £700 but have exceeded that and will actually raise around £1,200 thanks to the great support we've received. All the money raised will go directly to the branch so we look forward to seeing the difference it will make in the months ahead. "Anyone who would like to support us can still donate to this very worthy cause via our just giving page at http://tinyurl.com/ojw7tcf." Julie Cockcroft, Centre Manager at the RSCPA Halifax, Huddersfield and District Branch, added: "Since it was opened in 2004, the Andy Thompson Memorial Cattery has been packed to capacity with over 5,500 feline residents, the vast majority of whom have gone on to find a loving home. We're so grateful to everyone who took part in our 'Cat-napping' fundraiser and Cat and Chantelle certainly stood out!" Founded by a veterinary surgeon, Virbac is dedicated to supporting the veterinary profession through the development of innovative products and services, which help animals to lead longer, healthier lives. One of the largest independent veterinary pharmaceutical companies in the world, its wide product portfolio includes many market-leading and award-winning products for large and small animals.

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