Funding will help meet increased need for charity’s helpline
Mental health charity Vetlife has received £20,000 from the BSAVA to help meet the increasing demand for its services.
Vetlife provides emotional, financial and mental health support to the veterinary community through its 24/7 phone and email helplines. In recent years, however, the charity says that it has received a fivefold increase in contacts.
“[The increase] inevitably leads to greater pressure on our charity’s resources,” said Vetlife honorary treasurer Graham Dick. “This is a most welcome contribution from BSAVA, which will help Vetlife to maintain and improve its services in the face of ever-increasing demand.”
BSAVA senior vice president John Chitty said: “Vetlife makes a massive contribution to our profession and it is important to say just how much we appreciate what they do. Now, more than ever, the profession needs this kind of support and BSAVA believes this donation will help to meet the increased need.”
The donation comes as Paddle Against Plastic founder Cal Major gets set to begin an ambitious Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) challenge from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise funds for Vetlife.
Cal spoke at BSAVA Congress in April to raise awareness of plastic pollution and was joined by veterinary supporters on the canals during the event. The paddle takes place this month in memory of Cal’s best friend, who lost her battle with depression at the end of last year.
Image (C) BSAVA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
