Covid-19 Update

Routine appointments

Can I bring in my pet for a routine health check?

At the moment, for the protection of you and our team, in some cases we may ask that routine health checks are performed differently as we return towards a more normal way of working. So, depending on availability, we may recommend conducting a health check via a video or telephone consultation, answering any questions you have. We can also prescribe medications if needed.

Can I bring my pet in for nail clips or to have their anal glands expressed?

In most cases we will now be able to perform these services. Please contact us to discuss and make a booking as appropriate.

Food and medication

How can I get my repeat food orders or medicines for my pet?

It is important that you continue to give your pet the appropriate food and medication and we will help make sure your pet gets what they need. Please contact your practice to make suitable arrangements.

It would be a good idea to give at least 7 days’ notice of your requirements to ensure we can get them to you when you need them.

In some cases, we will need to have a consultation with you before we can give you more medications, which may be via telephone or video or in person. We will guide you through this process and make sure your pet gets what they need.

How can I get my flea, worms, tick and flystrike treatments?

It is important that you continue to give your pet the appropriate treatments and we will help make sure your pet receives them. Please contact your practice to make suitable arrangements.

It would be a good idea to give at least 7 days’ notice of your requirements to ensure we can get them to you when you need them.

Pets and Covid-19

Can my pet give me COVID19?

No, there is currently no evidence that says your pet can infect you with the COVID19 virus.

The biggest risk to you is another person with the virus so you need to follow the government recommendations of social distancing and washing your hands.

We advise that you wash your hands before and after playing with and feeding your pet, and that you don’t touch anyone else’s pet.

Can animals get infected with COVID19 virus?

A cat has recently been diagnosed with the COVID19 virus which it caught from its owner. Both the cat and owner have now recovered. This is a really rare event.

A very small number of animals have tested positive for the virus and have always been in contact with a person with COVID19. Current evidence does not suggest that they can spread the virus.

They are, however, like any other ‘surface’ (e.g. a door handle or shopping trolley) so if they are touched by an infected person they could carry it on their fur. So, please wash your hands before and after handling them to keep yourself safe.

Do I need to keep my cat inside?

No, if your cat usually goes outside then it may harm their health and welfare if you shut them inside

How do I care for my pet if I have or think I have COVID19?

Reduce the amount of contact with your pet(s) as much as possible. Wash your hands before and after any interaction with them and wear a face mask if possible.

If possible keep you cat indoors but only if they are happy to be kept inside. If you have a dog try and find a friend or neighbour to exercise them for you and make sure they practise good hand hygiene and have minimum contact with you.

If your pet gets ill for any reason whilst you are unwell, please call the practice for advice. We will be able to help you and your pet in the most appropriate way.

Signed by:

Dr Rachel Dean BVMS PhD MSc(EBHC) DSAM(fel) SFHEA MRCVS, Director of Clinical Research and Excellence in Practice

Tim Shearman BSc BVMS CertVC MRCVS, Director of Regulatory & Professional Affairs

Updated 8^th July 2020