This episode of The Consult Room asks a pressing question: Is the UK heading for a veterinary care crisis?

I’m joined by Dannii Thorington-Neve, Head of Veterinary Strategy at Blue Cross, who leads the charity’s Veterinary Care Fund. Launched in 2023 with just 23 practices, the fund now has over 1,700 practices signed up nationwide - a clear sign that more and more pet owners are struggling to afford veterinary care.

Together, we explore what this growth tells us about the UK right now, how poverty and the rising cost of living are shaping pet ownership, and what it means for the future of veterinary healthcare. Along the way, we share stories from pet owners whose lives have been transformed by the fund, and we discuss the bigger systemic questions around affordability, transparency, and the role of charities in bridging the gap.

This is a conversation about the realities of modern pet care, the tough choices facing families, and the need for new ways of thinking to keep pets and people together.

In This Episode:

• What the rapid growth of the Veterinary Care Fund tells us about UK society

• Why more pet owners are delaying or avoiding vet visits due to cost

• Stories from owners whose pets have benefitted from the fund

• How charities like Blue Cross are working alongside private practices

• The wider systemic issues in veterinary pricing and accessibility

  
  

Key Takeaways:

• The UK is facing a growing veterinary care crisis

• The Veterinary Care Fund has expanded from 23 to over 1,700 practices in two years

• Many owners are struggling to afford essential treatment for their pets

• Collaboration between charity and private sectors is essential for solutions

• Rising costs and lack of transparency are fuelling inequality in pet ownership

• Access to affordable care is fundamental to animal welfare

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about the Blue Cross Veterinary Care Fund: ⁠bluecross.org.uk⁠

• For support with pet costs and advice: Blue Cross Support Services⁠

• Follow ⁠@DrPaulTheVet⁠ for more episodes and updates

💬 Do you think pet ownership is becoming a privilege only for the wealthy? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media.

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