Leading vet charity PDSA has celebrated a milestone, as the roof was installed at the new Nottingham Pet Wellbeing Centre. A ‘topping out’ ceremony was attended by a charity vet nurse, as well as clients and pet patients.
Thanks to the charity’s generous supporters, including a significant donation from The Marian and Christina Ionescu Hospital and support from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, PDSA has so far raised £2.3 million towards the build cost for the pioneering new centre.
But the charity is urging local people and businesses to support them to help with the remaining funds needed to kit out the new building, which will replace its ageing pet hospital on Dunkirk Road.
PDSA vet nurse Nina Downing said: “It’s fantastic to see the amazing progress that’s been made on the new centre, which will open next year for Nottingham’s pets and owners. PDSA desperately needs a new hospital to treat the region’s poorly pets so it’s great to see this become a reality!
“We provide a vital service for Nottingham pets whose owners struggle to afford treatment for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, we are there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn.
“The pandemic has been a hugely challenging time and we’ve worked hard to continue to keep our doors open for pets in need, despite all of the difficulties we’ve faced. Covid has brought into focus the unique and special relationship we share with our pets, enriching our lives and combatting loneliness, so we are truly excited to welcome a new, positive chapter for the people and pet owners of Nottingham.”
Located in Basford, the new hospital will replace PDSA’s current premises, which has now reached breaking point. The centre will feature a larger, brighter waiting area, with separate areas for cats and dogs, reducing the stress a visit to the vet can cause. It will also house improved kennel facilities to allow pets to recover from surgery and treatment in a better environment, a diagnostic room, digital x-ray facilities, and a bigger car park.
Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “Many of our players are huge animal lovers, so it’s wonderful to see the new Nottingham PDSA Pet Wellbeing centre taking shape. This facility will have a huge impact on the local community, helping many owners through difficult times and improving pet welfare, helping to keep pets healthy and happy.”
The centre is due to open in Spring 2022.
