Following last Monday evening’s announcement that people should stay indoors to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the advice we have been given is that we should provide emergency care only.
This is an unfolding situation, and can change at short notice.
For us, it is too soon to have exact definitions of what would qualify as emergency care only, but I will look at every case personally and decide on the appropriate course of action for you and your pet.
I do encourage you to call us to discuss any concerns you may have.
We as veterinarians have a duty to treat animals that are ill or injured, in pain or distress and I will continue to do so unless advised otherwise.
This is an unprecedented and fast-moving scenario which we all need to adapt to as it develops.
The most recent advice received from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the British Veterinary Association was sent out earlier this week, we are awaiting developments and will communicate these with you via our website and Facebook page.
‘Urgent update following Prime Minister’s statement:
“The RCVS and BVA are seeking urgent advice from Government.
“Current advice is that veterinary practices must reduce face-to-face contact immediately, switching to providing emergency care only, fulfilment of urgent prescriptions and maintaining the food supply chain.
“The RCVS is looking at revised guidance on the use of technology.
“Meanwhile for those of you wondering if you should go into work or not, the message from the Prime Minister was travel to work is acceptable, providing it is absolutely necessary and if work cannot be done from home, but bear in mind general advice around limiting contact with other people.”
We are still available to advise clients on veterinary advice and care by phone or email.
Please bear in mind, it is vital that we keep our staff healthy so we can continue to look after your pets in those emergency situations.
Please call us for any queries or to discuss your individual circumstances.
We also ask that you order medication in good time and we are taking payment over the phone for these.
We are also able to deliver essential medications to all clients. Again, please call us for details – please note that a fee may apply depending on distance but in most cases we are doing free deliveries.
These are extraordinary times, but be assured we are doing everything we can to look after your pets, as safely as we can.
Michael Morrow owns and runs St Vincents Veterinary Surgery, an independent family-owned practice providing personal care for pets in and around Wokingham since 2005. Well-known for his love of animals and interacting with clients, Michael has been looking after pets in Wokingham for more than 20 years. Should you have any concerns about your pet please call the practice on 0118 979 3200 or log on to www.stvincentsvets.co.uk
