New charity vet service for Waltham Forest’s needy pets

11/02/2008

The Blue Cross, Britain's pet charity, is launching a new veterinary service in Walthamstow this Friday (15 February 2008). The weekly mobile clinic, manned by a vet, vet nurse and receptionist, will treat the pets of local residents on means tested benefits and low incomes who struggle to afford private vets' fees.

The charity will provide treatment for straightforward problems, such as ear conditions, worms and fleas, as well as vaccinations, microchipping and general advice on responsible pet ownership. Animals requiring more extensive tests or treatment will be referred to The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria.

Nigel Smith, Blue Cross veterinary surgeon said: The Blue Cross mobile clinic will be indispensable to local pet owners who cannot afford private vets. The service provides an opportunity for them to get treatment, advice and preventative care for their animals. If they have any concerns about their pets' health, they can drop to see us and get their pets checked over.

Wayne Brown, Waltham Forest animal warden said: It is great that The Blue Cross mobile clinic will be coming to Walthamstow every week. Many local pet owners who can't afford private vets' fees will be grateful for this service on their doorstep.

Bill, a Blue Cross client at one of the existing mobile clinics brings his Yorkshire terrier 'Titch' for regular check-ups, he said: I have been here many times, the service is so good. Mark, with his English bull terrier 'Rose' said: This service is a lifeline. Before now I have got into debt so that Rose could be treated.

The Blue Cross mobile clinic will visit Walthamstow Town Square, High Street, E17 every Friday between 10.00am until 12.00 noon and 1.30pm until 3.30pm. For more information please contact The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria on 020 7932 2370.

To receive Blue Cross veterinary services pet owners must be in receipt of a means tested benefit or the State Retirement Pension (with no other sources of income). Proof of benefits is required, along with photo ID (passport or driver's licence) or a utility bill (gas, electricity or water) clearly stating name and address. People on low wages may also qualify for treatment. Proof of income in the form of a wage slip or bank statement is required.

ENDS
Notes to Editors
Media are invited to visit The Blue Cross mobile clinic. Please contact the press office to arrange. Photos are available on request.
The Blue Cross animal charity provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of small animal and equine adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees. 
For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk.
The Blue Cross mobile veterinary clinic is supported by Waltham Forest Borough Council www.walthamforest.gov.uk

Media contact
The Blue Cross: Louise Lee on 020 7932 4066 / 07880 781637 (out of hours) or louise.lee@bluecross.org.uk