New lifeline for poorly pets

18/03/2008

Blue Cross veterinary grant scheme extends

The Blue Cross is offering a lifeline to even more needy pets across the UK following an extension to its successful veterinary grant scheme. 

Relaunched as The Blue Cross Veterinary Care Fund, the charity has increased available funding and doubled the maximum grant it will pay towards veterinary costs of a particular treatment, operation or neutering procedure if the owner can't afford it.

The initiative was first launched in 2005 to help pet owners on low incomes who do not live near Blue Cross hospitals or clinics. So far the charity has awarded thousands of grants through 1,100 veterinary practices, 28% of all private vets in the UK. The demand from needy pets around the country prompted The Blue Cross to increase the maximum grant to £200 towards the veterinary treatment costs.

Dick Voigt, Blue Cross director of veterinary services said: We are delighted to extend The Blue Cross Veterinary Care Fund to ensure that even more pets across the UK get the treatment they deserve. We are asking vets whose clients may be eligible for a grant to contact us for more information about the scheme or pass our details on.

When Kaio, 14-year-old Chihuahua, became sick his owner took him to her private vets. Kaio needed detailed tests to determine what was wrong and as costs rose Mrs Farmery was anxious that she wouldn't be able to pay for the care he needed. She got in touch with The Blue Cross and discovered that she was eligible for financial help under the Veterinary Care Fund. The Blue Cross subsequently paid for the tests and helped towards the cost of life-saving treatment when Kaio was diagnosed with a kidney disorder.

Mrs Farmery said: Without the help of The Blue Cross we don't think Kaio would have made it. We can't thank them enough for helping us in our hour of need and are so happy that Kaio is still with us.

Pet owners must be on a means tested benefit or state pension with no other income to be eligible for support through the Veterinary Care Fund. Those on a very low income may also be eligible for the grant and should contact The Blue Cross for further advice.

For more information about the Veterinary Care Fund or how clients can apply please contact The Blue Cross customer care team on 01993 822651 or email info@bluecross.org.uk.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• Images of Blue Cross veterinary services available, please contact the press office
• 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 

Media contact

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