Rising living costs are forcing many pet owners to choose between meeting their own essential needs and paying for veterinary treatment and preventative care for their dogs and cats. Financial hardship, which is exacerbated in the winter, can lead to delayed treatment, worsening health conditions and avoidable suffering. For some families, it can result in the heartbreaking decision to relinquish or abandon a beloved pet, increasing pressure on already stretched animal welfare services.

Mayhew will provide targeted veterinary treatment, preventative care, advice and practical support to vulnerable pet owners experiencing financial hardship. Demand for our care packages alone has risen by 33% year on year, with 816 packages distributed in the first half of 2026, up from 614 in 2024. With our Community Animal Support Team identifying those most at risk and intervening early, we can prevent avoidable suffering and keep dogs, cats and the people who love them safely together.