As the lockdown eases and we try to resume some degree of normality we would like to keep you informed of the latest developments. Firstly, we hope you are well, please let us know any ways that we can help you and your pet. We have provided some tips based on some of the common problems we have seen during the lockdown. These are unprecedented times and we do not want to let the coronavirus interfere with the care and wellbeing of your pet. Having a pet has shown to be a blessing at this time and helps us to remind us of the immense value they bring to our lives.
Our priority and firm commitment during the lockdown period has been to safely treat and care for all the pet patients that have needed help from us. As many of you will know our team has kept treating any patients in urgent need during the lockdown period. We take such pride in having been able to continue to be of help where needed and thank all our clients for bearing with us as we have had to change some of our procedures. During this time we have continued to think about the safest ways to continue to offer the best of clinical services during this time.
Following the recent Covid-19 update from the government, (and via announcements from our governing bodies) you will be pleased to learn that veterinary surgeries across the UK have been encouraged to start to phase back to the full range of veterinary services.
As the restrictions begin to ease we would like to update you on how we plan to make more of our routine services available and, importantly, how we will continue to help you and your pets feel safe and protected every time you come to see us.
We are aware that many of our pets have gone a little longer than usual without their vaccinations and other services and are delighted to be able to welcome you back in for these services. In doing so we would also like to reassure you that we will continue to provide a safe environment, both for you, your pet, and our clinical teams.
Safety is our top priority. Whilst we are opening our doors to routine treatments again things will still be a bit different. We will continue our vigorous measures to minimise any opportunity for possible infection to be transmitted during a visit to us. All our team members will, therefore, continue to wear masks at all times and behind the scenes, they will be extra busy with hand and surface sanitation. Indeed, we have implemented the strictest of schedules for cleaning all surfaces as well as air conditioner filters with increased frequency.
To keep everyone safe, we have had to reduce face to face contact with our clients rather considerably but please rest assured that we will continue to be there for you and your pets for anything that you may need.
Safety first during every visit
When visiting the surgery, we will ask you to leave your pet with us at the door – we will bring them back to you once the visit is complete. You will only be asked to enter the waiting room if absolutely necessary e.g signing a form or making payment and in that instance, we would ask that you wear a face covering. Please note that we are only permitting one person at a time into our waiting area.
If any of this is difficult for you, please let us know, and we will try to find a suitable solution.
Please remember to let us know if you or any of your family have COVID symptoms or is self-isolating. In that instance, we request then that a friend or neighbour brings the pet to the surgery on your behalf.
If you are shielding at home then we can provide video or telephone consultations. If your pet needs to come to us then a friend or neighbour is welcome to bring them to us. If this is not possible then let us know and we can arrange a safe collection of your pet from your doorstep.
Video Consults
Back in early April we introduced video and telephone consultations with our vets. This continues to be a great way for you to address any issues about your pet and for our vets to determine whether your pet can be treated remotely or will need to attend the practice for an examination. These will be charged at the same price as a direct consultation as will be carried out from our vets on-site for those of you that prefer this option. If your pet needs to attend the surgery you will not be charged twice for a consultation. We are also pleased to offer free nurse consultations to discuss any questions and advice relating to preventative care to keep your pet healthy during this time.
Your medication posted to you
To ensure pets do not get behind with their medications, we will continue to post out and deliver medication, so please do get in touch if you require this service.
- Our VIP clients will receive their medications free of charge until the end of June. This service will then be available for a small monthly fee.
- You are also able to pick up any medications or diets from the surgery in a safe and socially distanced manner.
- If you cannot make it to the surgery or you need a drop off of meds or food then please let us know.
Vaccinations, neutering and dental procedures
- We are gradually opening up our vaccination slots so please call to book your appointment. These slots will be prioritised in order of clinical priority and scheduled into certain time slots.
Please be assured that if your vaccinations have lapsed and they need restarting then we will be undertaking a vaccine amnesty to give the second injection at no extra cost to you. - We are also resuming our routine operations such as dental procedures and neutering. Please call the surgery to book an available slot.
We aim to keep you regularly updated on our Facebook pages and websites (London Vets and Kent Vets).
We have missed you and look forward to seeing you back soon for whatever services you may now need. Do keep in touch and let us know if you have any questions regarding your pet’s health, our safety measures or anything else. We hope you are keeping safe and well and look forward to seeing you and your pets soon!
Warm regards from your vet team
Dane Walker MA VetMB GPCert(SAS) MRCVS
Principal Veterinary Surgeon
Last Updated on 10th of June 2020