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KEYHOLE SURGERY
Keyhole Surgery
Laparoscopy, or minimally-invasive surgery, is a way to explore the organs of your pet's abdomen using only tiny key-hole incisions. Using these incision, just a few mm long, we insert a camera and our surgical instruments to perform the surgery.
Laparoscopy is a less traumatic and painful alternative to traditional surgery. It is also a safer method of surgery because everything that is done is under direct magnified visualization. Organs, such as your pet's ovaries, do not need to be manually handled to allow the surgery to be performed, so there is less trauma to the internal structures of your pet's abdomen.
One use of Keyhole Surgery which is very popular is a canine ovariectomy or spay (the procedure for neutering a female dog).
What are the differences between an open spay and a keyhole spay?
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Open surgery involves a single incision is made down the midline of the dog's abdomen.
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The ovaries and uterus are removed. There is a 10-14 day recovery period.
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Keyhole surgery involves two very small incisions with minimal discomfort.
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The ovaries are removed. There is a 3 day recovery period.
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What Are The Advantages Of A Keyhole Spay?
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Minimal discomfort and quick healing.
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Most dogs return to normal activity 3 days after keyhole surgery.
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Keyhole surgery is fast becoming the 'standard of care' in veterinary just as it is in the human field.
Other Keyhole Procedures
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Retained abdominal testicle removal
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Liver investigations and biopsies
Orthopaedics
The Orthopaedics service at Ashwood is provided by:
Dr Patrick McKee BSc BVetMed MRVCS
Dr Niall Thompson MVB CertAVP(GSAS) PGCertVPS MRCVS
Patrick and Niall have both undergone further studies in Small Animal Surgery, with Niall holding the RCVS Certificate of Advanced Veterinary Practice in Small Animal Surgery. Both have a wealth of experience in the management of orthopaedic cases.
Cases usually start with a comprehensive consultation with Patrick or Niall. We accept referrals for orthopaedic problems and lameness investigations.
SOFT TISSUE SURGERY
Soft Tissue Surgery
We are performing soft tissue surgery on a daily basis, from neutering surgeries to lump, wounds and surgical cancer treatment. We also provide advanced soft tissue surgical options.
Some of the soft tissue surgeries we offer:
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Neutering
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Hernia repair
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Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
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surgery
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Bladder surgery including colposuspension
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Anal gland removal
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Reconstructive surgery
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Abdominal and gastrointestinal surgery
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Colorectal and perineal surgery
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Wound treatment
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Cancer surgery
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Lump removal
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Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA) and Lateral Bulla Osteotomy (LBO)
DENTISTRY
Dentistry
We perform dental treatment for dogs, cats and rabbits every day.
We check our own teeth twice a day whenever we brush, but what about your pet?
Teeth will naturally build up a layer of plaque over time, eventually leading to bacteria and tartar build-up. As a result, our pets end up with a red gum line (gingivitis), tooth pain/infection, bad breath and a bacterial risk to the heart and liver.
Where possible, we want to prevent this happening. So what can we do?
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Remove tartar, scale and polish the teeth.
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Perform digital dental x-rays to confirm tooth quality.
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Treat and manage any dental disease.
Lift that lip - what can you see?
Lift your pet's lip and check their teeth. Book an appointment with one of our vets for a free nurse dental check.
LASER THERAPY
K-laser Therapy (Class 4)
Arthritis, wounds, muscle injuries, bone healing and more!
We are proud to offer state-of-the-art Class 4 K-Laser therapy, one of the most advanced treatments available in Northern Ireland. This therapy uses high-intensity, near-infrared light to penetrate deep into tissues, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain.
How it works:
The laser emits specific wavelengths of light energy that are absorbed by cells, stimulating cellular repair, increasing blood flow, and reducing inflammation. This helps your pet’s body heal faster, naturally and safely.
What it can help with:
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Arthritis & chronic joint pain – Helps manage discomfort and improve mobility.
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Muscle injuries & back pain – Accelerates recovery and reduces soreness.
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Wounds & post-surgical healing – Speeds up tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
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Dental healing – Supports faster recovery after gum procedures.
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Inflammatory conditions – Can help control inflammation in conditions such as cystitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Benefits for your pet:
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Reduces pain and discomfort naturally.
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Speeds up healing and recovery time.
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Non-invasive and safe.
We are one of the few practices in Northern Ireland to offer this advanced therapy, bringing the latest in veterinary care to our patients. Ask our team if Class 4 K-Laser therapy could help your pet feel their best!
Medical Investigations
MEDICAL INVESTIGATIONS
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State of the art medical equipment in-house:
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Video rhinoscope and laparoscopic (Keyhole) equipment
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In-house blood and urinalysis machines
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Microscope for cytological analysis
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Abdominal and cardiac ultrasonography
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Digital x-rays
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Dental x-rays
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Oscillometric blood pressure measurement
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Otoscope and Ophthalmoscope
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Access to additional specialist advice when needed.
Medical conditions are managed by our highly qualified team of vets & nurses.
PET INSURANCE
Pet Insurance
Good pet insurance is vital for the majority of our clients.
If your dog is under 12 months old we can help you set up 4 weeks FREE insurance with PetPlan.
PetPlan is the company we choose to work most closely with and their lifetime policies are excellent.
There are many pet insurance companies and policies out there, however, for our clients with PetPlan pet insurance we waive our claim-administration fee.
We would love to talk to you about pet insurance.
Send us a WhatsApp!
DERMATOLOGY
Dermatology
We have a wealth of experience in dermatology, with nearly 50% of all our consultations involving your pets skin, ears or feet.
Common signs of a skin issue:
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Itchy skin/feet/ears
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Reddened skin
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Excessive licking
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Sores on the skin
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Recurrent ear infections
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Brown staining of feet or over-licked areas
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Greasy feeling fur/skin
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Bad smell from the skin that bathing doesn't get rid of
If your pet has any of these signs, they may have a skin issue. Please don't hesitate to book an appointment to see one of our vets.
Our dermatology service involves:
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A thorough assessment of your pets diet, environment, and what the problem is.
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A comprehensive veterinary examination of your pet.
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If investigation is indicated, this is tailored to your pet, based on their presenting signs and history. These may include, one or more of the following:
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Skin scrapings to assess for evidence of external parasites.
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Skin and ear samples for cytological or histological assessment.
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Swabs to send for skin/ear bacterial culture and sensitivity.
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Allergy testing (blood sampling), allowing us to make an allergy vaccination if appropriate.
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We have access to gold-standard dermatology therapies, that can effectively treat and manage your pets skin/ear issues for the long-term.
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Each pet is treated as an individual, Our advice on dermatology management is multifactorial, looking at everything from your pets diet and environment, to therapy options.
If your pet is experiencing any of the above signs, please don't hesitate to book an appointment to see one of our vets.
In-house ear cytology showing bacteria and yeast
In-house skin cytology showing a demodex mite (mange)
NURSING CARE
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Blood sampling
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Injections
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Advising on treatment plans
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Clipping nails
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Anal glands
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Dental checks
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Post-operative checks
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Nutrition
Every day our RVNs are seeing clients and patients for:
PUPPY/KITTEN PACKS
Puppy and Kitten Packs
🐾 Welcome to the Family! 🐾We can’t wait to meet your new puppy or kitten!
What’s Included in Your Tailored Puppy or Kitten Pack?
No matter what your pet has had done elsewhere, we’ll get them fully up to date and protected. Every pack is tailored to your pet’s individual needs!
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Full veterinary health check
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All core vaccinations – we’ll pick up where others left off
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Kennel cough vaccination (for puppies)
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Worming, flea & tick treatment
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Microchipping
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4 weeks FREE PetPlan pet insurance
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Discount voucher for neutering
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Discount voucher for next year’s boosters
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Plus: cuddles & love from the whole team 💕
Already started vaccines elsewhere? No problem! We’ll review what’s been done and build the rest of their care plan around it — so your little one gets everything they need, with nothing missed.
PET FOOD AND TREATS
Ashwood Pet Food and Treats
Dog Food
Superfood 65
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Different flavours
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Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source
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Grain free
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5 select superfoods in each recipe
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Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion
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No other guff, just goodness
Goodness Grains
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Different flavours
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Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source
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Freshly prepared protein and grains - wholesome & gentle on the tummy
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Ground rice, barley & oats to help your pet feel full & satisfied
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Digestible nutrients, essential fatty acids, fibres and vitamins.
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Hypoallergenic - there is no wheat, wheat gluten, dairy, egg or soya in this range
Cat Food
Connoisseur Cat
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Irresistible to cats - high quality protein
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Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source
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Grain free
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Highly digestible and delicious
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Formulated to support urinary tract health
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Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion
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Reduces hairballs
Wellness Treats for Dogs and Cats
Dental
Digestive
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Natural green tea extract to help control bacteria
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Added vitamins & minerals
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Dental-care bites
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Activated charcoal for white teeth and fresh breath
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Helps prevent tartar and plaque development
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Contains peppermint for fresh breath
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Added vitamins & minerals
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Supports gastrointestinal cell renewal
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Contains cellulose for a healthy gut
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Pro-biotics to stabilise and stimulate gut flora
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Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion
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High fibre to support gut movement and solidity
Calming
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Added vitamins & minerals
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Grain free to maximise anxiety and stress
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Lavender to encourage relaxation
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Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion
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Chamomile for natural calming
Immune
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Added vitamins & minerals
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Contains nucleotides - essential for the renewal of cells
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Omega 3 for cognitive function
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Beta glucans to aid immune defence
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Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion
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Selected protein sources for immune system support
Skin and Coat
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Added vitamins & minerals
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Omega 3 for a glossy and soft coat
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Grain free
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Improves skin quality
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Reduces dandruff
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Contains zinc and biotin for healthy skin and a shiny coat
80/20 Treats for Dogs and Cats
Fish
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80% freshly prepared salmon, white fish and trout
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20% sweet potato
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High levels of natural omega 3 & 6
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Fun, fish shaped, crunchy treat
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Ideal for training or as a reward (or just a snack!)
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Highly palatable for sheer deliciousness
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Grain free
Poultry
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80% freshly prepared chicken, duck and turkey
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20% sweet potato
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High levels of natural omega 3 & 6
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Fun, bone shaped, crunchy treat
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Ideal for training or as a reward (or just a snack!)
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Highly palatable for sheer deliciousness
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Grain free
VIDIVET 24/7
24/7 Video Vetcare with
This completely FREE service is paid for by us, and exclusive to registered Ashwood Clients. No catches, as simple as that! If there was ever a reason to register your pet with us, this is it! We are currently the only Veterinary Practice in NI to offer this amazing service, Free of Charge!
VidiVet gives you access to FREE digital vet support 24/7. The vet knows you are our client and they are operating on behalf of Ashwood.
To access our VidiVet service for free through the VidiVet app, please contact the clinic to get your Ashwood client sign-up link!
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Unsure if you need to go to the emergency vets?
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Unsure of what to do when we’re closed?
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Unsure about a medication?
Send VidiVet a message, video or photo via the VidiVet app and receive a personalised video response from our UK-qualified vet team in a matter of moments.
Not yet registered?
Already registered?
EMERGENCY COVER
Emergency Cover
Call 028 9041 9374 for our emergency line.
Outside of our opening hours:
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Use your VidiVet app for free veterinary advice from our team at VidiVet.
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In an emergency, contact either:
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Vets Now, Belfast on 028 9065 17929
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MiNightVet, Lisburn on 028 9268 0680
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SAYING GOODBYE
Saying Goodbye
We understand that saying goodbye is one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make.
If you think it may be the right time for euthanasia, we will work with you to ensure everything is as peaceful as possible. We can arrange a quiet time at the clinic or a home visit. We understand that making decisions about euthanasia can be hard; we are always here to talk through it with you.
PET CREMATION
We offer two options for pet cremation:
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Normal cremation - ashes are not returned. The crematorium facility is not operated for just one pet alone.
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Private cremation - your pets ashes are returned. The crematorium facility is operated solely for your individual pet.
If you choose a private cremation for your pet, you have a choice of how their ashes are returned:
CASKETS
Included in the price of the private cremation for your pet.
OAK CASKET
MAHOGANY CASKET
PHOTO FRAME
CASKET
CARVED WOODEN
TRIBUTE BOX
SLEEPING CAT
SCATTER TUBE
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SCATTER CUSHION
URN
KEEPSAKES (optional)
These little keepsakes are additional to the price of your pet's cremation.
PAW PRINT
IN CLAY
WOODEN HEART
KEEPSAKE
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT
The Blue Cross offer a Bereavement Support Service which includes a free phone line.
Many people have found this compassionate service very supportive.
You can find more information on their website here.
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