In light of the current COVID-19 situation, we have pulled together a list of the frequently asked questions – which provide further information about the precautions all veterinary practices are taking to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus.
Q: Are all existing appointments cancelled?
A: Following advice from the UK government, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the British Veterinary Association (BVA), we are currently only seeing urgent and emergency cases as face-to-face consultations, so routine and non-urgent appointments need to be postponed. Rest assured that these appointments are those that can be delayed safely so please call us to discuss any queries you may have. We will regularly review these appointment recommendations in line with government advice.
Q: What is classed as urgent or an emergency?
A: An emergency is when there is immediate threat to life or where there is likely to be a significant impact on an animal’s health and welfare if left unmanaged. Urgent cases are usually more stable, but still with significant health and welfare implications and a risk of deterioration.
If your pet is showing signs of being unwell or you have any concerns over their health, please contact the practice to discuss their signs and next steps, so we can guide you as to what type of care is required and when.
Q: Can I still get a repeat prescription?
A: Of course. We are here to ensure the continued health and wellbeing of your pet and are still dispensing their current medications used to treat ongoing medical conditions. Please bear with us as we may need more notice for repeat prescriptions than you are used to, and the process may be different in terms of collection or delivery. We may also require a telephone or video consultation in order to proceed with the repeat prescription.
We at Lida Vets are here to help you and your pets. We are currently experiencing a high volume of calls so we ask for your patience. If your pet requires a non-urgent repeat prescription and they have been seen by us in the past 6 months, you can order via email. Simply email your contact number, pet’s details and medication/s request to us at [email protected] . prescriptions will be ready within 2-3 working days.
Q: Can I still get worming tablets and flea treatments?
A: Absolutely. It is important that these treatments are administered regularly for the health of your pet and we will work with you to get your order prepared and ready. As with prescriptions, please bear with us in terms of changes to collection or delivery.
Q: My pet’s vaccinations are due. What shall I do?
A: In support of the government’s instructions for people to stay at home, we are postponing vaccinations during the current lockdown period. This is in accordance with instructions from our governing body, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, as well as other professional organisations and major charities. For adult dogs, there is some leeway on vaccination dates. It is advisable to limit dog-to-dog contact and their range of outdoor walks during this period. Keeping dogs away from areas which might harbour disease such as water courses or areas with a high rodent population such as farms and stables is also recommended. Puppies and kittens should, as far as possible, be kept indoors and away from other animals until we are able to start or complete their vaccinations. More information from the British Veterinary Association on vaccine postponement can be found here.
Q: My cat or dog needs neutering, what shall I do?
A: As planned neutering procedures are not classed as urgent or emergency, we are unable to offer these in the short-term. In the meantime, it is important to separate males and females entirely and to keep cats indoors if possible. Please call us if you need more advice on the practicalities of this until we are able to neuter your pet.
The information and advice contained here will be reviewed and updated in line with future government advice and guidance from the BVA and RCVS. So, please visit regularly for the most up-to-date information.