We are registered with V4P in Christchurch.
I have used Bournemouth in the past, Tom in particular when they were still CC.
I couldn't fault them then, and based on my experience at Christchurch I p... Read More
We are registered with V4P in Christchurch.
I have used Bournemouth in the past, Tom in particular when they were still CC.
I couldn't fault them then, and based on my experience at Christchurch I probably wouldn't now.
3 years ago, we were registered with a little independent vet in Tuckton (I stunt name and shame as the practice has since changed hands).
At the time our 11 year old cat (Harry) was having massive problems with fluid building up around his lungs, heart and in his stomach area.
All the vet would do was prescribe diuretics, he refused to do any tests saying they were to expensive and wouldn't show anything worthwhile.
When it became too much, we asked the ultimate question and he refused to answer just saying that it would have to be our decision.
That was when I registered with V4P in Christchurch. We booked the appointment, but Harry passed that night, so we had to call back and cancel. But the way in which we were treated, the compassion shown, meant we transferred our other pets over to their care. (The better opening times also helped)
This year Pickle (Harry's mother) is now also suffering from a build up of fluid, blood tests were done without issue, results came back quickly.
Turns out Pickle has heart failure.
BUT
through their exemplary care, she is still going strong.
She occasionally has fluid drained from her abdomen, but it's otherwise surprising everybody.
That was in July and it's now nearly November!
When we took her in for the first time, we explained what has happened with Harry, and got the response we wanted.
With compassion, they said that although it was ultimately our decision, if they felt the animal in question would be suffering, they would advise us how best to proceed.
That's all we wanted from our previous vet.
So, all in all I am very impressed.
Also, in all the regular visits Pickle has put up with, there have been occasions where the vet HAS NOT charged us for their time.
Obviously this is at the individual vets discretion, but it is a welcome change from the money grabbing that is prevalent in the entire "industry" (not really the right word, but I can't think of anything better right now). Read Less