PETstock Assist has announced its latest donation recipient, ACT Pet Crisis Support, ahead of World Veterinary Day on April 30 – a day to celebrate the contributions of veterinarians to the health of animals, people and the environment.

ACT Pet Crisis Support supports disadvantaged or low-income pet owners by helping them meet the high cost of veterinary care to avoid euthanising beloved pets.

PETstock Assist is donating $30,000, to support ACT Pet Crisis Support’s opening of a mobile vet clinic and support low income pet owners that struggle to secure an appointment at a traditional vet clinic due to the recent increase in pet ownership.

PETstock Assist’s Charity and Events Lead, Jessica Curtis, says the recent donation further supports disadvantaged members of the pet community across Canberra and local regions allowing them to receive greater access to lifesaving veterinary care.

“No matter the owner’s financial situation, we believe that all pets deserve the opportunity to receive proper care,” says Jessica.

“Access to affordable care and procedures will not only give owners peace of mind financially, but also reduce animal euthanasia rates and surrenders within the community.

“Through the donation, we also hope to help reduce the emotional toll on pet owners unable to afford veterinary care by helping to increase resources and support programs that keep pets safe and healthy.

“We’re so proud to partner with ACT Pet Crisis Support. While this donation will go a long way in supporting owners and their furry companions in the ACT, the charity does rely solely on donations from the community to help fund their incredible work.”

ACT Pet Crisis Support founder and veterinarian, Dr Eloise Bright, says that the generous donation is going to help them double their impact and target disadvantaged pet owners.

“Many pet owners don’t have the transport or resources to take their pet to the vet – this includes those pet owners that live in aged care and those with disabilities.

“Given the increase in pet ownership during COVID, one of the biggest obstacles that we face is that vet clinics are very busy and often booked out weeks in advance.

“We would receive desperate emails from pet owners who were unable to get an appointment with a vet. We thought the ideal solution was to open our own mobile clinic to specifically help low-income pet owners.

“We hope to double our impact in 2022-2023, targeting those pet owners who don’t have transport and may have never taken their pet to the vet.

“Thanks to PETstock Assist, the donation allows us to expand our service through a mobile clinic and ease the burden on our already overworked veterinary community so that they can continue looking after their existing clients.”