Petition Amend the Discretionary Assistance Fund to support vulnerable pet owners in emergency vet crisis

Under current guidelines, vulnerable people with long-term health conditions, mental illnesses like Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) or disabilities who use their limited money to pay for unexpected, emergency veterinary care to prevent an animals suffering and are routinely turned down for DAF support if they are honest about expenditure. Companion animals are a vital source of security, mental health support & rehabilitation. Forcing responsible owners into severe financial hardship - and penalising them for preventing animal cruelty - causes immense trauma, anxiety and fear. The DAF must be updated to recognise emergency veterinary fees as a valid crisis expenditure, ensuring safety nets remain accessible to vulnerable pet owners.