New veterinary clinic opens

The Blue Cross has opened a new veterinary clinic in the London borough of Merton to help the pets of people who cannot afford private veterinary fees. The clinic is a sister operation to the animal hospital in Merton, and is open on Tuesday afternoons only.

The clinic opened in May, at Pollards Hill community centre, South Lodge Avenue CR4 1LW and clients immediately arrived to use the new service.

One client, Mrs Sharman, came in with her two cats and several kittens, and said: "the new Blue Cross clinic is a great idea. I think this will really help local people out."

People can contact the clinic through the Merton hospital, but the clinic runs on a first come, first served basis with no appointments necessary. It opens between 2.30 and 4.00pm on Tuesdays only, and will initially only be for eligible pet owners living within the Pollards Hill ward.

Pet owners will have to provide proof of their eligibility for the service, such as receipt of a means tested state benefit, a state pension with no other income, or a provable low income. Pets will receive basic veterinary care at the clinic, but more complicated procedures or tests will be referred to the Merton or Victoria hospitals where pets will also be eligible for treatment. Pet owners will be asked to make a donation of whatever they can afford towards the cost of the treatment.

Anyone who requires more information can contact the Merton animal hospital on 020 8254 1400

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