Blue Cross has teamed up with a number of vet practices to offer discounted vet treatment for pet owners on a low income.

The private practices – ST Stead in York; Icknield Veterinary Group in Luton; and Seymour Vets in Torbay – provide treatment and health check-ups on behalf of the charity for pets whose owners are on means-tested benefits.

There is an annual registration fee of £22 per pet, which includes the cost of vaccinations, microchipping where needed (now compulsory by law for dogs and recommended for cats), a health check and pet care advice. Treatment when pets become sick or injured is also provided on a contribution basis.

Reduced cost preventative care, including neutering and flea and worm treatments are also available at significantly reduced prices at the clinic. Pet owners are able to register one pet per household including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and gerbils.

Richard Casey, clinical development manager at Blue Cross, said: “We are very excited about extending our suite of Pet Care Clinics to new areas of the UK. The four new locations join our current schemes in Derby and Cwmbran.

“We hope the new services reassure local pet owners on a low income that their pet can be treated if they become sick or are injured.”