Freshfields Animal Rescue has introduced a mobile veterinary service across Merseyside to assist pet owners facing financial difficulties and rising veterinary bills. The service, described as a necessary measure due to increasing demand, is run by a veterinary nurse and a dog behaviourist, offering basic treatments, advice, and preventative care, although it is not an emergency service.
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Emma Jensen, the charity's director, emphasized the need for proactive approaches as traditional rescue efforts alone are insufficient. She stated that financial strain on pet owners has led to an uptick in demand for support, while donations are not keeping pace. "Nobody can manage, we are not getting as many donations," Jensen remarked. "This is our solution. We are having to get into prevention."
Michael Kelly, a local resident navigating unemployment and financial challenges, praised the new service after benefiting from a personalized diet plan for his dog, Nyla. Kelly noted he cannot afford regular veterinary visits due to his job loss.
The service also addresses behavioral issues in pets, which have reportedly surged since the coronavirus pandemic. Dog behaviourist Nat Busby highlighted the importance of early intervention for minor behavior issues to help owners understand and manage their pets better.
Additionally, the outreach includes access to a mobile app that offers 24/7 veterinary advice and behavioral guidance at no cost, along with referrals to low-cost veterinary care options.