FOR this Christmas, a charity founded by Supervet Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, will help bring some festive cheer to households in Andover.

Humanimal Trust has teamed up with Blue Cross and the Natural Pet Centre to help those in Andover struggling with the cost of living crisis.

With an increasing number of people struggling to pay for everyday essentials due to the soaring cost of living, there are growing fears that many companion animals could go hungry, fall sick or be abandoned over the festive period.  

Joe Bailey, CEO of Humanimal Trust, said: “Times are particularly tough for us all at the moment - regardless of the species - so we wanted to do something different this year with our Christmas appeal to recognise people’s generosity and help those companion animals in greatest need.

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“Working with Blue Cross and the Natural Pet Centre really echoes what we and One Medicine are all about – bringing people together and driving collaboration for the mutual benefit of humans and animals. We are so grateful to them both for supporting our Stronger Together at Christmas appeal and for helping us bring a little joy and happiness to some of our animal friends over the festive season.”

For every donation of £5 or more to Humanimal Trust’s Stronger Together at Christmas appeal, the Natural Pet Centre will donate a companion animal treat pack, containing species-specific food products and fun accessories. These packs will then be distributed to those who need them via Blue Cross animal food banks across the UK, including in Andover.

All donations to the appeal will help the charity drive One Medicine, bringing together vets, doctors, researchers and allied professionals so that all humans and animals can benefit from sustainable and equal medical progress, but not at the expense of an animal’s life.

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Blue Cross, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, offers a range of items for companion animals at food banks across the UK, including bedding, litter and leads.

Jayne Mernock, co-director of the Natural Pet Centre along with Steve Leek, added: “We have long been advocates for One Medicine and are huge supporters of Humanimal Trust, so we’re really excited to be part of this campaign. We’d like to say a huge thank you to Natures Menu, Carnilove and Trixie in particular, who are also donating supplies to go into the treat packs to help those who might be struggling to give a special treat to their animals this Christmas.”

To make a donation to the #StrongerTogetherAtChristmas appeal, go to www.humanimaltrust.org.uk