COVID-19.

What changes have we made as a Practice to ensure we are doing our best to keep everyone safe during COVID-19.

Here at CrickmoreVets, we have introduced the following precautionary measures regarding Coronavirus.

We are no longer open for regular walk-in consultations and have, in line with RCVS and Government guidelines moved to an Emergencies & Essential Appointments ONLY system. For all queries, please ring the normal surgery number: (01242) 580709.

Do I need to wear a face covering when bringing my pet to my pre-booked appointment?
As of the 8th of August and in line with Government and RCVS requirements clients are now required to wear a face covering or mask when visiting the Practice. This is to assist in protecting both yourselves and our team during these challenging times unless medical conditions exempt you. We do have a selection of washable fabric face coverings to purchase at £9.00 each. A percentage of our sales of these is going to our chosen animal charity.

I require prescribed medication or diets for my pet, what do I do? Please call our normal telephone number (01242 580709) or alternatively email us reception@crickmorevets.com and we will check this is in stock and arrange a suitable collection time. You can also request this using our new online booking system (see Book Appointment tab) where you’ll be able to coordinate a specific time for collection that suits you. (Please note this service will only be available for our registered clients and animals we have seen previously). We are unable to post out any medication.

I have an EMERGENCY or ESSENTIAL pet problem what do I do?
Following recent updates regarding COVID-19 by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the Government guidelines please ring the Practice (preferable when urgent) where there will be a recorded message and a different phone number, or email us, or book a suitable appointment using our new online booking system (See Book Appointment tab). Upon arrival at the Practice please ring the doorbell as we are only be allowing one client to enter the Practice with their pet in at a time or ring us from the carpark as the door will be locked. We will then meet you at the arranged time and ‘squirt’ all clients hands, with a germ killing liquid to help to protect us ALL against the virus.

I am self-isolating, have a cough and or fever, or have been in contact with someone who is ‘self-isolating’ what should I do?

Please get someone else to come down on your behalf to the appointment, along with a letter of authority from you regarding any treatment necessary and contactless payment method. Then please follow the previous step.

I would like my pet to be neutered what do I do? In line with the RCVS and Government guidelines we have currently stopped routine neutering procedures but when or where neutering is to protect the welfare of your pet then please contact us and we will consider this on an individual basis. Once the restrictions have been lifted we will resume routine operations.

Can my animal be infected with, and spread COVID-19?

According to the British Veterinary Association there is currently no evidence to suggest that companion animals can be infected with or spread the COVID-19 virus that is affecting humans. Nevertheless it is important to practise good hand hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly after touching your pet and avoid being licked by them. There is some evidence to suggest that the virus could potentially be carried on fur for a short time - again wash your hands and avoid face contact.

Can I still walk my dog?

Current Government advice states that all households must stay at home and only leave to buy essential supplies or exercise once a day. You can walk your dog in accordance with this guidance e.g. If you live on your own, you can walk your dog locally as part of taking exercise once a day, or if you live in a household of 2 people you can walk your dog locally twice a day if each of you go out separately. Strict social distancing guidelines should be followed.

We hope all of our clients and their pets stay safe and well and look forward to catching up another time after the Coronavirus has gone!