Consultations
It is always extremely concerning for all of us, whenever a family member becomes ill. It is even more concerning when this member doesn’t speak the same language, and can’t tell us where the problem is!
We understand that your pets are your family members, and the associated pain and stress that is caused when they are in pain or ill. We promote regular veterinary visits to help your pets and us in such situations. A biannual health check is recommended for healthy animals and required for anything receiving medication, and provides us with a regular set of data, telling us what is ‘normal’ for your pet. We also get to interact with your pet in good health, which allows us to better assess them on days where they are feeling poorly.
Whatever the situation, you always know your pet best! If you are worried about a behaviour that is slightly unusual, or you think your pet may be ill, please contact us at the earliest opportunity. It may be that we can provide reassurance and advice, or we may recommend a consultation with a nurse or a vet.
For pets with a predilection for ‘naughty’ foods, medicines, or other delectable (probably revolting) items, you may wish to consult our poison checker.
For those of you who aren’t quite sure whether to be worried or not, we would always welcome a conversation. It is always better to be safe than sorry! You can always use our symptom checker prior to contacting us, to provide peace or mind or for an idea of how urgently your pet may need to be seen.
Our current clients also have the option to contact Vidivet using our unique practice code. This is particularly useful for non-emergency cases when we are closed. A vet will be available and will get back to you with a video message, within around 30-60 minutes, any time, day or night, 365 days a year. You will need to register your pet on-line and download the Vidivet app to use this service. (This is available for those who are not registered with us, but is chargeable at the time via Vidivet.)
It is extremely helpful to us if you are able to bring samples with you, where appropriate. For example, if your pet is weeing a lot, please bring in a urine sample on the day of the appointment. This should ideally be the first wee of the day, and should be collected in a clean pot. Plastic tubs may be used, but please ensure they have been washed thoroughly, rinsed in very hot water then left to air dry, and that they have a sealed lid!
For pets with diarrhoea, please bring a stool sample with you. Unless this is a very sudden presentation, collecting stools over 3 days can be extremely helpful – they can all go into the same pot.
If you think your pet may have eaten something inappropriate, please bring any packaging with you. Whether this is the wrapper of a chocolate bar or the packet a dishwasher tablet came from, it is helpful to us to know exactly what we might be dealing with. This allows us to treat your pet effectively, as quickly as possible.
We operate an appointment-based system, so will book you in at the earliest convenient time for both parties. However, if you are worried your pet is deteriorating, please do call us and arrange a nurse triage appointment.