The PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals) is a charitable organisation which provides vetinary care for people on low incomes in receipt of Housing Benefit/ Council Tax Benefit (Council Tax Reduction).
This morning my father spoke to me and said that his dog had taken a turn for the worse. He'd been a bit wobbly, and is fairly old. However, he wouldn't eat dinner last night. This morning he couldn't stand up. Dad had taken him out to have a wee, but had to hold him up, and his breathing was laboured. He wouldn't even drink from Dad's cupped hand.
I telephoned PDSA at 07.30. They don't open until 9am, so I called their emergency number.
They were absolutely wonderful. Mum and Dad couldn't find their Council Tax award (they get pension credit) and the woman said not to worry, they'd deal with it and to bring the dog in by 08.30.
We got there, went to reception. The vet immediately came out and said 'paperwork later, let's see to your dog.'
She quickly and kindly examined him, and gave the opinion that he probably had a tumour in his chest, but given his legs it wasn't kind to investigate further and that he was incredibly poorly. She offered to euthenise him and did so kindly and compassionately.
They offered to deal with paperwork tomorrow, but Dad wanted it done. The receptionist phoned the local council, explained that Dad had just lost his dog but they needed proof of his benefit. It was quickly confirmed, and they sorted the paperwork swiftly.
God bless the people who donate to keep the PDSA running.