Emergency Service - Factsheet

In common with all veterinary practices in Britain, we provide a 24 hour emergency service

There is no way of predicting when an emergency may occur and when immediate advice and attention are necessary. Therefore we have arrangements to cover such eventualities, either by ourselves, or by using the dedicated emergency service provided by a local Veterinary Hospital. In either case your first point of contact should be this practice by telephone.

Our answer phone message will instruct you as to what to do next.

In many cases the problem can be sorted by telephone, and the pet seen at the next scheduled clinic. Where possible consider this option first because we will know you and your pet and have all the records to hand. However if the matter cannot wait, then an out of hours appointment can be arranged. Please note however that we are unable to make house calls for emergencies.

If you are seen at the Veterinary Hospital, the immediate problem will be sorted and your notes will be sent to us for follow-up as necessary. Please do not be alarmed that you have been asked to go to another practice since they employ fully qualified vets and nurses who are capable of helping. The essential thing is that your pet is seen more quickly by this method than by waiting until our own practice is open.

If you are seen at this Practice by one of the regular staff, please bring with you anything that may be relevant. We also require that an adult attends who can make decisions and authorise treatment.

In either case, please note that payment of fees has to be made at the time and if your pet is admitted then a deposit will be required for anything other than first aid pain relief.

When to use the emergency service

You are welcome to use the service whenever you like. If you are worried then call us. It may just be advice or reassurance that is needed, but if you would like your pet seen then tell the veterinary surgeon.

However, please be aware that the veterinary surgeon will have been working all day and will be expected to work again tomorrow. Therefore if a problem is not serious and it can wait until the Practice is open again, then do so. There will be more staff to help too.