Leading science and care for animals

Published: 29/03/2017 13:14:24

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF LEADING SCIENCE AND CARE FOR ANIMALS AT THE ANIMAL HEALTH TRUST

2017 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for the AHT, the UK’s leading veterinary and scientific research charity, as we celebrate our 75^th Anniversary. As the charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and horses we may only cover 100 acres in Newmarket, but the impact of our research and veterinary expertise spans the globe.

 

The AHT was founded in 1942 by vet Reginald Wooldridge, who wanted to see veterinary medicine advance at the same pace as human medicine. His aspirations have led to the AHT owning Europe's first dedicated veterinary MRI machine, and pioneering its use in veterinary medicine (1992); being one of the first laboratories to offer DNA testing for inherited diseases in dogs; and the AHT opening the only centre in Europe with a purpose-built Cancer Centre to deliver radiation therapy to dogs, cats and horses suffering from cancer (2012). The Trust still believes that the best treatment relies on the best knowledge – and they are the leading UK charity where research and treatment are carried out in one place. The AHT is special because every penny of profit made is re-invested into lifesaving research. This research discovers cures and treatments, and helps to prevent disease and injury in the first instance, putting an end to needless suffering. What is amazing is that even if you don’t visit the AHT, it’s the research that happens there that benefits your animal. Unfortunately for the AHT, this means their contribution is often overlooked, so not as many people know about them as they should.

We could spend all day celebrating their ‘firsts’ and ‘onlys’ – and today we did! The team were joined by some of its most passionate supporters and grateful clients; all of whom either have had their animals treated at the Trust, who have benefitted from its research, or simply love animals as much as the team do. Fundraisers exchanged stories on how their training was going for events such as the London Marathon; whilst clients were re-united with the vets that helped their pets be in such good health and enjoy the day. It was obviously a nice change for these patients to be visiting the charity without needing to go in for a check-up! Guests also had the opportunity to look behind the scenes in each of the clinics to see where and how the dedicated vets and nurses provide such excellent care for very sick and injured dogs, cats and horses.

 

But with so much to celebrate, why stop at a day? The AHT has a calendar full of celebrations throughout the year; including its annual Charity Race Day at Newmarket’s July Course (10 June) and UK Equestrian Awards in London (31 October). Through these events, and with the support of individual fundraisers and animal lovers, the AHT has set itself the ambitious target of raising an additional £75,000 this anniversary year. These funds will help towards another 75 years of continuing their vital research and ensuring the best care possible is available for more animals than they may ever see in their own clinics – which includes your animals, and those of your family and friends. 

 

The AHT’s dedicated teams of vets, nurses and scientists aim to make animals’ lives better today, tomorrow and forever. If you want to find out more, want to get involved with the celebrations, or want to show your support visit our special 75th Anniversary website: www.aht75.org.uk