Low‑Cost Vet Clinic Eases Pet‑Owner Expenses

A new reduced‑price veterinary service run by the RSPCA’s Medway West branch has already treated 160 animals in its first 11 days, according to the charity. The clinic, opened to help people on low incomes or receiving benefits, offers affordable care for pets that might otherwise be left untreated.

“Your pet would come first. You’d have a bit of toast yourself and pay out for your pet,” said Chatham cat owner Christine Gardner. “Having somewhere like this is amazing.” She told the BBC the nearby facility is a relief for her, as she looks after six cats.

Angela Adams, who describes her pets as “babies,” added, “I would rather starve than they starve.” She cares for eight cats, two rabbits, four guinea pigs, two African land snails and a tortoise, and explained that health problems prevent her from working. “Seven of my cats were due for vaccines this month and you can imagine the cost of that,” she said. “That’s a lot of money.” Adams noted she has heard friends struggling, making the clinic a welcome resource.

RSPCA branch account manager Imara Ó Niocail said many owners who could previously afford their animals are now unable to do so because of the cost of living or changed circumstances. “We would like to keep the animals at home with the owners and treat them there,” she told the BBC. The low‑cost clinic allows Medway residents to obtain needed treatment and then take their pets home without bearing full veterinary fees.

Medway West branch manager Kevin Morton said the charity’s centres are “full‑to‑bursting” with animals, and some owners surrender their pets because they cannot afford care. “Some people might think that if you can’t afford to feed it, then don’t have it, but if it’s your only companion you have, they can keep people going,” he explained.

Since the start of 2026, the branch’s pet food bank has distributed 18,909 food items, 1,294 treats and 919 kg of biscuits to families in need.

The story was reported by Chrissie Reidy from Chatham and Craig Buchan, South East, and published on 17 October 2026.