If you go into hospital you will need someone to look after your pet. Here are some options for you.
Most people ask a family member, good neighbour or friend to help. If not, for cats and dogs, you may need to contact a local kennel or cattery. You should be able to find details of these in your local telephone directory.
Lewisham Council can arrange for pets to be looked after when their owner is in hospital or short term residential care. There is a charge for this service.
We place pets in a local cattery or kennels and arrange transport for them to be taken there and brought home when their owner returns.
This service is available to anyone who is temporarily in hospital or residential care and who has no-one else available to take care of their pet.
Please note: It is better for a pet to remain in its own home rather than moving it to a strange environment – try to think of a family member, friend or neighbour who could feed your pet while you are away.
Who is eligible
- this service is open only to people who are temporarily away from home
- the Council makes a charge for this service to cover boarding and transport costs
- we will need a key to your home so we can collect your pet if you are not there
- if your pet is found to need medical treatment while you are in hospital, this will be arranged by the cattery or kennels. The cost of this will be added to the Council’s charges
- we cannot look after or help with exotic pets such as reptiles.
How to access the service
To apply, please discuss your situation with your social worker or contact Lewisham client services.
Who else can I ask for assistance with my pet?
You could ask your local vet or contact the following organisation who may be able to assist:
The Cinnamon Trust which is also a charitable organisation who have 4,500 registered volunteers across the UK. They may be able to help you find pet care if you have to go into hospital.