Over the next few weeks and months many of us may find ourselves in the situation of having to self-isolate to protect others in the community. One of the biggest worries for pet owners will be what to do if your pet becomes ill.  

It will be far less stressful if you can do a little forward planning now.  Putting a plan of action in place now could save a lot of worry should the need arise to stay at home. 

We would recommend checking your supplies of food and any medications that your pet normally takes and making sure you have 2 weeks supply in case of emergencies. If it is difficult for you to get out for your repeat prescriptions, then please contact us and we will make sure your medicine can be posted out to you. 

In the event that your pet becomes ill during self-isolation time it would be wise to have a friend, neighbour or family member on stand-by who would be willing to collect your pet for you and bring him/her to the surgery. We need to protect our vets and nurses so that they are available to help as many animals as possible, so regret that house visits in this situation will not be possible except in cases of life threatening emergencies or where a patient would be in danger if moved. 

In the event that you are concerned but unsure as to whether your pet needs to come in, please telephone us for advice. In some circumstances it may be possible to have a telephone consultation with a vet for advice or medication if deemed appropriate. 

If your pet does need to come in, then we would ask the person bringing him/her in to wait outside in the car and report to reception either in person or by phone. The vet will collect you when ready. At present there is no evidence that pets can catch or spread the virus but these measures have been taken to make sure that we take all necessary precautions to protect other pets in our care.