Dr Connell said he found the work of the charities "utterly inspiring" and praised the difference they make to the lives of the people and animals that they work with.

Annual donation will support future animal welfare projects

As part of the college’s annual Christmas donation, president of the RCVS Dr Niall Connell has selected two charities that are focused on treating highly vulnerable animals to receive £1,500 each.

The first charity, StreetVet, helps animal companions of homeless people living in cities in England, Scotland and Wales, by providing free veterinary care. The charity works with hundreds of veterinary volunteers to administer services like vaccination, microchipping and treatment of infections.

Co-founders of StreetVet, Sam Joseph MRCVS and Jade Statt MRCVS, commented: “The RCVS and the veterinary profession as a whole continue to support us at every step allowing StreetVet teams across the country to continue providing essential care to pets belonging to those most in need.

“This fantastic donation will be used to pay for set-up costs that allow StreetVet teams to do their valuable work in two new locations this year.”

The second charity is The American Fondouk. Operating in the Moroccan city, Fez, it provides free veterinary care for working animals like donkeys, horses and mules, which are relied upon by many of the city’s poorest residents to provide transportation and labour. The charity also works to educate the population on caring for working equids.

The charity’s director, Dr Gigi Kay FRCVS said: “We know that the wellbeing of a working mule is intimately linked with the wellbeing of an owner and his entire family.

“Sometimes though, despite the best efforts of the Fondouk veterinary team, a mule or donkey loses its battle for life. In these instances the owner can be left destitute. As a result of the generous donation from the RCVS, the Fondouk will be able to buy eight replacement mules for farmers whose mules have died.

“This is a Christmas gift that will feed eight families for many years to come. Really a gift that carries on giving.”

Image (c) The RCVS