Dear Animal Friends.

I'm trying to raise some funds for my friend Emily's pet rat, Chives, to get emergency vet surgery. Chives is six months old and in pain. She has blood in her urine which has not cleared up after a course of antibiotics and the next step is surgery to remove a stone in her bladder. Unfortunately, as Rats are classed as exotic pets (seriously), the pet insurance was extortionate and unaffordable. Emily is now in the awful position of having to get support for the vet costs. Chives is usually a perky and loving pet, spending hours happily playing with her brother Cheddar. She's now laid low, shying away from cuddles or any interaction.

All animals deserve to be cared for and free from pain. Am I a big Rat fan? Not really ...but Chives is just as adorable as any cat or dog and we just want to see her back home happy and with Cheddar. Please help and donate something, anything ... please.