PDSA
Over 150 shops funding free veterinary care for the pets of people in need
PDSA — the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals — was founded in 1917 by Maria Dickin CBE, a woman of remarkable social vision who was appalled by the suffering of working animals in the overcrowded slums of London's East End. Dickin opened the first dispensary in a basement in Whitechapel, offering free veterinary treatment to animals belonging to people too poor to afford care. Within two years she had registered 2,000 animals; within a decade the PDSA was running mobile dispensaries across London.
Maria Dickin's most celebrated legacy beyond the PDSA itself is the PDSA Dickin Medal — instituted in 1943 and widely known as 'the animal VC'. The medal is awarded to animals serving in military or civil conflicts that display outstanding gallantry. Recipients have included carrier pigeons, horses, dogs, and — most famously — Simon the cat, who served aboard HMS Amethyst during the Yangtze Incident in 1949. The Dickin Medal is still awarded today.
PDSA operates over 150 charity shops across the UK, stocking donated clothing, books, homeware, accessories, and many pet-related items. The shops are well-regarded for their welcoming atmosphere and community focus. Many branches also stock PDSA-branded greetings cards and merchandise. As with many federated charity shops, the character of each shop reflects its local volunteer team.
All proceeds from PDSA shops fund the charity's primary mission: providing free and subsidised veterinary treatment to the pets of people on qualifying benefits. Private veterinary care can run to thousands of pounds, and without PDSA, many animals would be surrendered or euthanised. PDSA's 48 Pet Hospitals and Pet Clinics deliver millions of treatments every year — paid for almost entirely by public donations and retail income.
PDSA relies on volunteers to run its shops. One regular session a week is typically all that's needed.
Volunteer with PDSA ↗ Guide to charity shop volunteering →What can I donate to PDSA?
Drop donations at your nearest PDSA shop. No standard home collection.
- Clothing & shoes
- Accessories & jewellery
- Books, CDs & DVDs
- Homeware & gifts
- Pet accessories & items
- Large furniture
- Electrical appliances
- Duvets & pillows
- School uniforms
- Damaged goods
PDSA — common questions
What does PDSA stand for and when was it founded?
PDSA stands for People's Dispensary for Sick Animals. It was founded in 1917 by Maria Dickin CBE, who opened the first free veterinary dispensary in a Whitechapel basement to treat the animals of London's poorest residents. Today PDSA operates 48 Pet Hospitals and Pet Clinics providing free and subsidised veterinary treatment across the UK.
What is the PDSA Dickin Medal?
The PDSA Dickin Medal — instituted in 1943 and often called 'the animal VC' — is awarded to animals serving in military or civil conflicts that display outstanding gallantry. Recipients have included carrier pigeons, horses, dogs, and cats. The medal is still awarded today and is the highest honour an animal can receive for war service.
What can I donate to a PDSA charity shop?
PDSA shops accept good-quality clothing, shoes, accessories, books, CDs, DVDs, homeware, jewellery, and pet accessories. Items should be clean and in good condition. PDSA does not generally accept large furniture, electrical appliances, duvets, pillows, or damaged goods. Contact your local shop if you are unsure.
What does PDSA use its shop income for?
PDSA shop income funds free and subsidised veterinary treatment for the pets of people on qualifying benefits. Without PDSA, many animals belonging to low-income households would go untreated or be surrendered. PDSA's 48 Pet Hospitals and Pet Clinics provide millions of treatments each year, paid for almost entirely by donations and retail income.
How do I find my nearest PDSA charity shop?
Use the postcode or location search on this page to find PDSA shops near you, or visit the official store finder at pdsa.org.uk/get-involved/charity-shops.
Who is eligible for free PDSA veterinary treatment?
PDSA provides free or reduced-cost veterinary treatment to the pets of people receiving Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction (in some areas), or Universal Credit. Eligibility is assessed at the Pet Hospital or Clinic. If you are not eligible for free treatment, PDSA may still offer reduced-cost care. Check pdsa.org.uk for full eligibility criteria.
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