Mobile clinic anniversary

A mobile veterinary clinic, launched by pet charity The Blue Cross, is celebrating after treating over 1,500 of the East End’s needy pets in its first year on the capital’s streets.

The clinic provides a veterinary service for people who have difficulty attending Blue Cross animal hospitals, and offers treatment for the pets of owners who are unable to afford private vets’ fees. Staff at the clinic treat minor problems such as ear conditions, worms and fleas, offer vaccinations and microchipping and give general advice. Illnesses requiring more treatment are referred to the main hospitals.

Blue Cross director of veterinary services Dick Voigt said: “We are delighted that the clinic has reached its first birthday, and has served so many of the East End’s pets. Since the clinic started visiting Hackney, Bethnal Green and Islington it has helped over 1,500 animals whose owners could not afford private vets’ fees. We believe this clinic is a valuable community resource, and we would like to thank all the people who have come to use it in the past twelve months, and hope to see many more.”

One man who brings his dog to the clinic said: “I am really grateful to the Blue Cross’s mobile clinic. It’s really been good not having to go all the way into town for routine things like flea treatments, and you don’t need an appointment.”

The clinic is situated on Bethnal Green Road every Monday; in Hackney Town Hall car park every Wednesday; and in front of Islington Town Hall every Thursday. It is open from 10.30-12.00 and 14.00-15.30. Owners must be in receipt of a means tested benefit, or the State pension with no other income and bring proof of this with them.

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal 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.

Photos available on request

Media contact:  Susan Crown
Direct line: 020 7932 4066
Mobile: 07880 781 637