RSPCA implements six-month payment deadline
"As a charity that relies solely on public donations it is important to emphasise our priority lies with those animals who are victims of extreme cruelty or neglect."
The RSPCA is to implement a six-month deadline for vets to reclaim costs for initial emergency treatment (IET).
In a statement, the charity said the move forms part of a process to improve efficiency and that it hopes the process will be quicker.
Up to now, the RSPCA had been receiving claims dating back several years. This made it time-consuming and expensive to investigate, resulting in delayed payments.
“The national RSPCA will continue to subsidise initial emergency treatment for animals as part of our vital role in helping to treat animals in need,” explained RSPCA London veterinary director Caroline Allen.
“The work vets do in this area is greatly appreciated by the RSPCA and we appreciate that IET is only a contribution towards the care given. In the case of any ongoing assistance that may be offered by RSPCA branches, at their discretion, this is subject to those branches’ own rules as they are independent charities.
“As a charity that relies solely on public donations it is important to emphasise our priority lies with those animals who are victims of extreme cruelty or neglect and we also have a responsibility to make sure charity resources are spent in the most effective way possible.”
To help improve communication between the society and vets, the RSPCA has also recruited a new vet liaison manager. Michelle Edwards, who has taken on the role, said:
“I am looking forward to helping bridge the communication gap between vets and the RSPCA and to ensure this process works well for everyone whilst most importantly benefiting animals in need.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
