Vet care is expensive. Whether that’s for cats, dogs , rabbits, horses snakes or even fish.
With the cost of living rising each day, there’s even more demand on the pockets of pet owners who may find themselves struggling . Shelters are struggling to cope as more people make the heartbreaking decision to give up their pets .
So if you find yourself in need of animal support but are struggling for the cash, where can you turn? There are some incredible charities that can provide assistance, here are a few we’ve found.
Read more: Meet the dogs looking for loving homes as they spend a lonely winter in kennels
RSPCA
The RSPCA is the world’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity. In recent months, it has seen the demand for its pet foodbank soar.
According to the charity’s research, seven in 10 pet owners are worried about the cost of caring for their animals, and a fifth are concerned about they’ll afford to feed them. However, the charity is there to help and can deliver pet food donations to owners and animals in need.
If you’re struggling to feed your pet, then search for a foodbank near you using the RSPCA website. Support packages available can include food, litter and bedding.
Cats Protection
Cats Protection is the country’s biggest charity solely dedicated to helping our feline friends. It is really important to have your cat neutered as it can help to prevent them from getting certain diseases and also prevents unwanted litters of kittens, which can incur extra costs.
If you have a cat that you would like to get neutered but are worried about the cost, Cats Protection may be able to help. They run a financial assistance scheme to offer free or low-cost neutering.
These regional schemes are only available while funding allows. Find out if there is a scheme in your area by using their postcode tool or call the neutering helpline on 0300 012 1212 (9.30 am to 1 pm, Monday to Friday) and choose option two.
The guidelines for eligibility for neutering assistance apply to one or more of the following; receipt of certain means-tested benefits, low household income, full-time students living away from home, state-only pension and pension credit. Proof of eligibility will be required by the vet in order to participate in the scheme.
PDSA
The PDSA provide free or low-cost veterinary care to those who are eligible and in receipt of certain benefits. This can be at their own hospitals but also at some private veterinary clinics as well.
And a quick tip! If you think you are eligible and you may need their support in future, try to register with them before you need them. It makes things much easier and can help you to access the care your pets need as soon as possible.
Blue Cross
The Blue Cross provides free or reduced-cost veterinary care at their own hospitals or via their Pet Care Clinic scheme. Owners in receipt of certain benefits can register with the clinic or the hospital in advance and know they are covered if needed, however, places are very limited.
The Blue Cross also runs pet food banks , which can help with pet food, bedding a litter for your cat, dog or small pet. Anyone struggling to feed their pet can visit a Blue Cross food bank and collect the food they need.
In addition, Blue Cross also has tons of non-judgemental advice on its website, with inspiration for enrichment games, coping with costs and home care. They also offer a behaviour and training service in person, over the phone or via video call, though this service does come at a small cost.
DogsTrust
DogsTrust is offering discounted training classes and behaviour support to dog owners. They have also opened dog food banks at some of their centres.
StreetPaws
Street Paws support pet owners who are experiencing homelessness. Founded in Newcastle, StreetPaws provides free and accessible vet care, can find emergency kennel space and works with accommodation providers to welcome pets so that owners and their furry friends do not have to be separated.
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