'I WAS CHARGED £180 TO PUT MY HAMSTER DOWN'

A FAMILY was left “in shock” after a veterinary practice charged them £180 to put their pet hamster to sleep, regarding it as an “exotic animal”.

- HOLLY MORGAN

Nicky Paddywack claims they were quoted almost £200 by Alphavet in Langstone, Newport, to put their blind Syrian hamster Pan to sleep.

Nicky said: "Alphavet in Langstone wanted £180 to put our hamster asleep as they see it as a tropical pet - it is criminal what they want to charge.

"When they told me the price on the phone I nearly laughed and asked them to repeat themselves, just in case I had misheard.

"Then I felt angry and disappointed that vets can charge whatever they want as no-one regulates their charges.

"I'm lucky I could drive to another vet - others may have no choice.