FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Please find below some of the questions that we are commonly asked:

How much are consultations, vaccinations, drugs and surgical procedures?: Unfortunately, there is no NHS for pets. All private veterinary practices are funded by the fees that you pay. Our fees reflect the services, facilities, equipment and expertise we can offer. We try to keep costs down as far as possible and to help us do this, we ask you to pay at the time of treatment. We are always happy to give an estimate of costs in advance, however it is not always possible for our vets to anticipate how a case may progress. We will keep you informed if treatment costs are likely to exceed the estimate given. All fees and medicines are subject to VAT at the prevailing rate. All major credit cards are accepted, except American Express.
What is the procedure for repeat prescriptions?: Please click here to visit the Repeat Prescriptions page for all of the relevant information. You are also able to request repeat prescriptions online via a form on the same page or by telephone.
What are the opening times?: Our Hospital reception is open for emergencies at all times, please phone us first so we can be prepared.
Weekday surgeries are from:
8am - 12pm
2pm - 3.20pm
4pm - 7.20pm
Saturdays and Sundays from 10am - 5pm
All consultations are by appointment only.
For branch surgery hours, please contact your nearest branch directly.
What do I do in an emergency?: If an emergency arises during surgery hours, please phone your normal branch. All information can be found on our contacts page. The staff will do all they can to assist, and will arrange an emergency appointment for your pet. Where possible, you will be seen at your usual branch surgery, but in some instances it may be that you will be asked to attend either the Hospital or one of our other branches. For out of hours emergencies, please call the Hospital on 01903 234866. If at all possible, we ask that clients bring the patient straight to the Hospital so that we have all the facilities and diagnostic aids immediately to hand to help emergency cases. The Hospital is manned by trained staff 24 hours a day, with a vet on call over night. For the security and safety of our staff, please call before you arrive to let us know you are coming. More information on the emergency service can be found on the services/emergencies page.
Can I book a home visit?: During normal surgery hours, visits can be arranged if you telephone us either the day before or before 10am, but in most circumstances it is in the interests of both you and your pet to be seen at the surgery. Here we can make a more thorough examination, undertake diagnostic tests if necessary (blood tests for example) and give prompt treatment. Please remember that we have to make an additional charge on top of the consultation fee for home visits, but we can usually offer the services of a veterinary ambulance to collect and return your pets to you.
What pet insurance do you recommend?: Due to changes in the Financial Services Act (FSA) regulations, we are no longer allowed to recommend specific companies or policies. We are only permitted to complete the veterinary surgeries section of the claim forms. We do however recommend that you insure your pets for both third party liability and for veterinary cover. Knowing that you can meet the cost of treatment gives great peace of mind. We have leaflets for various insurance schemes at all our surgeries.

01903 234866

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