Charity warns of pet poverty crisis as pandemic hits owners’ finances

A vet charity has warned of a pet poverty crisis in Scotland as many owners are struggling with the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) says more than 66,000 pets in Scotland have benefited from free and low-cost vet care since the initial lockdown began back in March.

But it has now had to launch a Pet Care Crisis Emergency Appeal to raise funds so it can continue to care for animals.

Between March and September this year, PDSA hospitals and clinics in Scotland carried out 62,873 remote consultations, 1,078 essential or emergency operations, and 2,519 X- rays for pets whose owners can no longer afford vet fees.

Jan McLoughlin, PDSA director general, said: “This winter, we’re facing

the biggest challenge in our history.

“We’re experiencing unprecedented demand for our services.

“During this time, pets have become more important than ever for so many people – providing companionship and comfort and alleviating isolation. But the financial impact of the pandemic is starting to bite.

“No pet owner should

be faced with losing a beloved pet because they can no longer afford to pay for treatment. And no pet should suffer because of poverty.

“I’ve not known a pet care crisis like it in the 19 years I’ve been at PDSA.

“Without charitable support from the public, our PDSA Pet Hospitals in Scotland may not be able to meet this additional demand for our services.”

PDSA has had to launch an emergency appeal.