Free and low cost veterinary care support for owners

The current UK cost-of-living crisis and the rise in veterinary costs is having a particularly significant impact on low-income individuals and families. These individuals may struggle to afford basic necessities and may be forced to make difficult choices about allocating their limited resources. The cost of essentials has risen dramatically, and many owners are in a very different situation now than a year or two ago.

Many Cavalier owners are having difficulty with veterinary bills and are perhaps putting off taking their animals to the vet due to the cost. This will undoubtedly lead to the health concern worsening and perhaps an even bigger bill at a later stage or a condition that cannot be managed later. Very sadly, we are seeing many more cases like this currently.

The first thing to do is discuss your situation with your current vet. Be completely honest with them; they may be able to offer you help.

Available support for veterinary care

Several organisations in the UK provide free or low-cost veterinary care to pet owners who may be struggling financially. Some options include:

1. The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA): This organisation provides free or low-cost veterinary care to pets belonging to people who are on a low income, receiving certain benefits, or experiencing financial hardship. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/
2. Blue Cross: This organisation provides low-cost veterinary care at its hospitals and clinics, as well as a range of other services, including behaviour advice, microchipping, and vaccinations. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/
3. RSPCA: The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) operates many clinics and hospitals that provide affordable veterinary care to pets belonging to people on a low income or experiencing financial hardship. https://www.rspca.org.uk/
4. Dogs Trust: Dogs Trust offers free and subsidised treatments to pet owners who are homeless or facing a housing crisis. This program is available in 112 towns and cities across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. https://www.dogstrusthopeproject.org.uk/help-with-vet-care/introduction

We are concerned that many owners will not qualify for these services or may be outside the catchment area.

There may be local charities or groups in the area that can offer support for veterinary care.

If you are struggling, contact your veterinarian and ask if they know of any assistance in the area.

It’s crucial never to give your dog human medication if they’re unwell and you’re having trouble accessing veterinary care. Many human medications are highly toxic to dogs, and even those that are safe for dogs require precise dosing from a vet. Some medicines may not be appropriate, especially if your dog has underlying health issues you’re unaware of.

Always consult a vet, who can guide you on the best course of action for your dog.

Food banks for pets

Several pet food banks in the UK provide free or low-cost pet food to owners in need. Here are a few examples, but you can search online for local services.

1. PDSA Pet Food Bank: The PDSA operates a network of pet food banks across the UK, providing needy people free pet food and other supplies. To access the PDSA Pet Food Bank, you must be referred by a participating organisation such as a local council, Citizens Advice Bureau, or social worker.
2. Animal Aid: Animal Aid operates a pet food bank in London that provides free pet food and supplies to owners needing help. They also offer a delivery service for those unable to pick up the food in person.
3. The Cinnamon Trust: The Cinnamon Trust is a national organisation that provides a range of services to support older and disabled pet owners, including a pet food delivery service. To access this service, you must be referred by a participating organisation, such as a social worker or healthcare professional.
4. Your Pet Food Bank: Working with many other organisations, including social services, animal charities, and local food banks in and around Sheffield. Also accessible by self-referral. https://www.yourpetfoodbank.co.uk/
5. RSPCA Foodbank: The RSPCA Pet Food Bank initiative gathers pet food donations and distributes them to food banks, supporting both pets and their owners in need. With the rising cost of living, demand for this service has never been higher. Visit the website for more information. https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/costofliving/foodbank
6. Animal Foodbank UK: Animal FoodBank UK is a registered CIO charity supported by a team of volunteers committed to providing pet food and animal feed to individuals and families facing financial difficulties across England, Scotland, and Wales. https://www.animalfoodbankuk.com/
7. Blue Cross Food Bank: If you’re finding it difficult to afford food for your dog, cat, or small pet, Blue Cross pet food banks are here to help, without judgement. They can provide pet food along with other essentials like bedding. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/PetFoodBank
8. Dogs Trust Food Bank: Dogs Trust has set up temporary pet food banks to support anyone facing difficulties feeding their dog(s) during these challenging times. https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/dog-food-bank

Other things you can do

We have listed some ways of keeping your Cavaliers costs down in the long run.

Please contact us if you need urgent assistance; we will do our best to help you. We are in no way judgmental, and we have helped many owners save hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds over the years. We aren’t just here for rescue; we are also here for any Cavalier owner.