PET owners have been taking advantage of a scheme that provides free treatment to their animals due to illness or injury.

More than 200 pet owners have registered for the PDSA Pet-aid scheme at two Malvern-based vets - The Avenue Veterinary Centre on Avenue Road and White House Veterinary Surgery on Newtown Road, since it launched last September.

It is open to residents who receive housing or council tax benefits and live in WR8, WR13 or WR14 post-code areas.

People can register one pet only, which must be registered with one of the surgeries before it needs treatment.

"Our practice joined the scheme last September and we've been extremely pleased with the uptake," said Richard Chamings, partner with White House Veterinary Surgery.

"Many animals, ranging from hamsters upwards, have received free treatment."

Registration forms are available from both practices, and there is a £3 administration fee.