When StreetVet Cornwall needed help to bring vital veterinary care to pet owners experiencing homelessness in Falmouth, Rosemullion Veterinary Hospital stepped up.
By loaning a vet for just two hours a month, they’ve helped deliver preventative care, health checks, vaccinations, and neutering advice, amongst many other things, including peace of mind to those who need it most.
This inspiring partnership shows how small actions can make a big impact and how you can get involved too!
Ever wondered what happens when a local vet practice says “yes” to making a difference? That’s exactly what Rosemullion Veterinary Hospital in Falmouth did, and the results have been incredible!
Back in late 2023, the StreetVet Cornwall team realised something: pet owners experiencing homelessness in Falmouth had no easy way to access the veterinary care and support they needed.
Falmouth had been identified as an area where StreetVet support was vital, but outreach clinics were only possible during the day, and on a specific day each month, and StreetVet didn’t have daytime volunteer vets in the area. Without help, the pet owners experiencing homelessness would have faced long, costly trips to Penzance, Redruth, or Truro to attend a StreetVet outreach clinic, which would have often been impossible due to a lack of funds and limited travel options.
When StreetVet CEO (and volunteer vet nurse) Zoe Abbotts approached and asked for support, Rosemullion didn’t hesitate. Since January 2024, they’ve been loaning a vet to StreetVet to volunteer for two hours every month. That simple act has created a ripple effect of care and kindness:
Preventative care, vaccinations, and even routine and emergency surgeries for pets whose owners are experiencing homelessness.
StreetVet support between 6–12 patients at every outreach clinic in Falmouth, as well as providing daily pet essentials, including food, coats, collars, harnesses and leads.
Continuity of care for the pets and their owners, with any follow-up appointments needed at Rosemullion Veterinary Hospital, means familiar faces and peace of mind.
StreetVet outreach clinics run alongside the Salvation Army’s Homeless Services Day each month, so owners can access housing advice, GP care, clothing, washing facilities, a barber, hot drinks & meals, and more, all in one place which also welcomes pets.
19 regular pets cared for: 16 dogs, 3 cats.
8 vets volunteered, giving over 40 hours of volunteer time to StreetVet across 2024 and 2025.
Cost savings for StreetVet by avoiding out-of-area veterinary referrals.
A stronger, more connected local support network of homeless service providers for StreetVet.
StreetVet is CVS colleagues' chosen charity partner for 2025/26, and this story highlights what’s possible when working together.
Whether you’re a vet, nurse, or non-clinical colleague, even a couple of hours a month can help to change lives.
Want to get involved?
Email volunteer@streetvet.org.uk and help StreetVet bring more outreach clinics to more communities across the UK.
We will use everything you give - in cash or kind - to provide much-needed veterinary care and support to the pets of those experiencing homelessness across the UK.
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