Dr Luke Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, has visited Leicester Animal Aid’s pet support scheme to see what it means for vulnerable members of the community who rely on assistance to care for their pet.
This free service, The Community Pet Support Scheme (CPSS), launched, in 2016, provides practical support to enable elderly, physically disabled and housebound pet owners to care for their companion cats and dogs at home.
Dr Evans joined Leicester Animal Aid during a visit with a client of the scheme who lives in his constituency.
CPSS clients are supported by Animal Care Assistants who visit the clients home to assist with pet-related tasks such as dog walking, grooming or taking an animal to the Vets.
In 2022 the National Lottery Community Fund announced that Leicester Animal Aid would receive £90,000 to fund the pet support scheme for three years.
Dr Luke Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, said “I’m hugely grateful to Jackie for welcoming me into her home to discuss what the scheme means to her and how Animal Aid’s support means she can continue to care for her dog, Sally.
“In short, this free service means that people who would otherwise have to give up their pet can keep their trusty companion at home with the support provided. Brilliant and much needed. As an owner of two dogs myself, the thought of having to give them up is heart wrenching, so this service really is a lifeline to those in difficulty.”
“Jane, Merrill and the whole team at Leicester Animal Aid are brilliant in supporting people in and around our community who would otherwise struggle to care for their pet. I urge anyone in our area who thinks they or a loved one may be eligible to find out more about the scheme and support available.”
Leicester Animal Aid said “For pet lovers, the love and companionship of animals is a vital and sustaining part of everyday life. Our clients' pets are their friends, a source of support, a confidante, a conversation-starter and in some cases, a link to the outside world.
“The Scheme is therefore twofold; it prevents well-loved animals from entering rescue unnecessarily and helps to prevent loneliness.”
Find out more about the scheme here: https://www.leicesteranimalaid.org.uk/community-pet-support-scheme/how-the-scheme-helps-referrals
