Riverside Vets

03/01/2024

With lungworm slowly making its way throughout the UK, it’s important that we understand how this emerging disease is contracted in the first place.

You’ll be pleased to hear that lungworm cannot be passed from one pet to another, which helps to slow down the spread of lungworm.

Lungworms live in slugs and snails where they have time to grow and develop. If your pet was to then ingest one of these slimy critters, they are then at risk of contracting lungworm. 🐌

Once infected, they can then shed lungworm larvae in their faeces which then infects more slugs and snails.

Thankfully, lungworm can be prevented through regular prescription strength medication. 💊

Speak to us today to cover your pet with lungworm prevention!

01/01/2024

We would like to wish all of our clients a very Happy New year! Here’s to 2024✨

We are closed today but our emergency line is open for out of hours calls. Please call us on 02380620607.

29/12/2023

Over the last few weeks, our surgery has received a lot of questions from concerned XL bully owners as the new regulations are now fast approaching for England and Wales.

We want to assure you that we will do our absolute best to support our clients throughout the entire process of registering their dog. Our goal is to care for all animals no matter what shape or size.

From 31 December 2023 breeding, selling, advertising, rehoming, abandoning, and allowing an XL bully dog to stray will be illegal in the UK.

Please see links to government website on the steps you should follow.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog/official-definition-of-an-xl-bully-dog

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prepare-for-the-ban-on-xl-bully-dogs

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-a-certificate-of-exemption-to-keep-an-xl-bully-dog

And finally, a supportive community page full of information that may be useful at this worrying time

https://www.facebook.com/TheBullyBoardroom

The purpose of this project is to provide sign posting and support with the XL Bully ban

27/12/2023

NOW REUNITED WITH OWNER - THANK YOU

Grey & white cat has been handed in to us yesterday. Found in Bishopstoke area, young female.

If you are missing a little lady matching this description, please do contact the surgery by phone - we're sure she'd like to come home!

24/12/2023

We would like to wish all of our clients and their pets a very Merry Christmas!!

We are open 24 hours for emergency calls only please call 02380620607.

20/12/2023

This clever little chap is Bucky 😎

Bucky’s owner has been putting time aside each week for the past month so Bucky can come to us and build up positive experiences and work on certain things that worry him at the vets in our Confidence Clinic Sessions with our RVN Izzy.

Bucky has to come in monthly for a regular injection to help with his joints, this had unfortunately proven a bit difficult due to him getting anxious, stressed and very sensitive to touch in the place where we need to give him his injection.

Izzy has been working on injection site desensitisation training with Bucky to help him become less fearful and worried of injections.

Working on Injection site training has allowed Bucky to cooperatively work with the nurse so he can be given his injection stress free! 💉

Today, Izzy was able to give Bucky’s injection successfully whilst he sat there and remained calm and focused on his favourite treat!! 😎

If you are interested in our confidence clinics for your dog, please get in touch with Izzy
Contact us via PetsApp or call in on 02380 620 607

Go Bucky! 🐾🎉

20/12/2023

How can ticks be avoided? Well, the easiest way is to treat your pet with a suitable strength tick killing medication.

Some medications will even repel the tick before they have had a chance to attach to your pet.

You can reduce the chances of your dog getting ticks by avoiding wet, woodland areas. 🌳 Walks which have long grasses can also be a good hiding place for ticks, so avoid these walking locations too. 🐕🚶‍♀️

It can be hard to control where your cat explores, 🐈 so the best prevention for them is medication.

Are you unsure of what medication to use? Speak to us today so that we can discuss the different options available.

19/12/2023

Beautiful sisters Ruby and Pearl signed up to the plan today!

Our Riverside health care plan has many benefits for Cats & Dogs
🐶 UNLIMITED VETS & NURSES CONSULTATIONS
🐶ANNUAL VACCINATIONS
🐶YEAR ROUND FLEA, WORM & TICK TREATMENT
🐶6 MONTH ROUTINE HEALTH CHECKS WITH NURSE
🐶REGULAR WEIGHT ASSESSMENT
• Many discounts on toys, treats and routine neutering!
If you’re interested in finding out more about the benefits of being on our plan and saving money for 2024 then please get in touch via 02380620607 or pop us a message on petsapp!

19/12/2023

Thursday 21st is the last day to order routine medications for collection by 23rd so please give us a call or message us on pets app to ensure you have enough medications for your pets throughout the Christmas period!

Please see below our opening hours over Christmas. Our Out of hours service is provided after hours and on the days we are closed 24/7.

12/12/2023

We were besotted with beautiful Teddy and how cute he looked in his Christmas jumper!

Have your pets got Christmas outfits? Share with us below if so ☺️✨🎄🦌🌟

11/12/2023

Gorgeous duo in for their vaccines with us recently. Perry at the back and Bob at the front!

Welcome to riverside beautiful kitty’s 💙

08/12/2023

Little Oscar dressed up ready for Christmas for his vaccine appointment today ♥️💚♥️💚

07/12/2023

Christmas jumper day has arrived at Riverside!

Our staff have been supporting save the children by raising money and wearing their best Christmas jumper😊

Follow the link to find ways to donate to this amazing charity this Christmas 🎄🎅🏻🎁
https://christmas.savethechildren.org.uk/fundraising/CJD230022347

04/12/2023

Thank you for your nominations!

Congratulations to Izzy, Andrea, Jenny, and Anna our nurses. Gemma our equine vet and Lisa one of our receptionist who were individually nominated in recognition for their great work 😃

The Petplan Veterinary Awards recognise the fantastic work that goes on in veterinary practices across the UK. Petplan has worked closely with the veterinary profession for over 40 years and hosts these independent industry awards to recognise the hard work and dedication of veterinary staff caring for our pets. If you think your veterinary practice or someone in the practice team deserves to win, complete the nomination form below!

Remember, nominations are anonymous and you can nominate again for the same category or a different category.

https://www.petplan.co.uk/about-petplan/vets/awards/

04/12/2023

This is Lovely Leo

Leo has been coming in regularly for Confidence Clinic Sessions with our RVN- Izzy,

When at the vets, Leo is very timid and unsure of the environment. At first Leo was hesitant to take treats and engage with our Nurse Izzy but, with each session Leo is coming out of his shell a little bit more everytime!

These clinics for Leo have been done gradually, taking it at his pace and ensuring he isn't pushed too far. The nurse can now do a routine procedure which he used to dislike having done!… and we are now able to express his a**l glands without Leo being worked up and stressed afterwards!

These sessions allow Leo to come into the practice and spend time in the vet environment to help build up his confidence and help him learn that we aren't scary - with the help of lots of sardines!

If you are interested in our confidence clinics for your dog, please get in touch with Izzy
Contact us via PetsApp or call in on 02380 620 607

01/12/2023

Curious Thor being nosey down the corridor before he was admitted for his castration with us! What a good boy he was 🐾💙

practice

30/11/2023

Little boris and Nellie came in for their monthly injections and they couldn’t look any cuter in their matching jumpers!

28/11/2023

As a practice, we take part in fundraising for save the children each year. This year on the 7th of December our staff will have the opportunity to wear their Christmas jumpers for the day!

If you’d like to support our team by raising money for this charity then please follow the link below!

Alternatively you can text To donate £5 text RIVER607 to 70050

We're taking part in Save the Children's Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 7 December! Every pound we raise will give children in the UK and around the world the chance to grow up healthy and happy, and change the future for good.

24/11/2023

Happy Friday!
Snoozing into the weekend like Marty? 💤 😴

Show us what your pets are getting up to this weekend in the comments !

21/11/2023

🐶 Let's chat about muzzle training 🐶

Muzzles are a precautionary measure, not an indication of aggression, they are valuable tools for a lot of situations whether that is in public or helpful in higher stress situations. Training your dog to wear one calmly can reduce stress and prevent accidents. 🐕‍🦺

In light of the new UK law for XL Bully Type breeds, it's essential that dog owners understand the value of muzzle training. Not just for the dogs and owners facing these challenges, but for everyone. 👥 The Guidelines state that Muzzles and Leads in public come into impact from the 31ST OF DECEMBER 2023. We have time to introduce muzzles in the most suitable way.

Muzzles can be a positive tool when introduced correctly, ensuring comfort and safety. 🌟 So, whether you're needing a muzzle for a specific training focus (prevention of eating inappropriate items, cooperative care at the vet or groomer, regulations, etc) or needing to follow the guidelines of the XL Bully law, it is important to introduce this useful skill to your dog properly. 💪

Selecting the right muzzle:
Any uncertainty when choosing a muzzle - consult with us to find the perfect fit. The Basket Muzzle design are advised due to prioritizing both safety and comfort.

Here at Riverside, Izzy our Registered Veterinary Nurse, is offering a free Muzzle Training Session for anyone wanting more information about how to get started. 😊

Together, we can ensure our furry friends are happy, comfortable, and safe in any situation. 🐶💙

Please contact us on 02380 620 607 or enquire on PetsApp

20/11/2023

🐶Puppy pre school 🐶

Here at riverside we offer puppy socialisation classes!
It’s a way to get your pup socialising in a safe and controlled environment!
Nikki a IMDTB certified dog trainer and behaviourist that we work closely with can help with a variety of different issues and give guidance on things such as toilet training, puppy biting and jumping up.

We offer the first 2 sessions free here at the practice on a Tuesday evening.

If this is something you’d like to know more about or book in and reserve your puppies space please get in touch with either us on 02380620607 or directly through Nikki on 07413448886

Check out some previous pictures of puppy pre school graduates and see what they got up to in their session!

12/11/2023

They gave their very life for us
Done without regret
For this we will remember
For this we won’t forget 🌺

On the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month.

08/11/2023

The lovely boy Enzo was castrated earlier this week and after his operation he enjoyed lots of cuddles and love from the nurses 💙💙💙

02/11/2023

*NOW REUNITED WITH OWNER*

We have an entire male chocolate and tan miniature dachshund that’s been handed into us after being found just outside our practice.

Please contact us if you think this is your dog, proof of microchip number will be required

01/11/2023

Introducing… Beautiful little Nelly

Here, in the first photo, is Nelly hanging out in her ‘safe space’ under the chair by mum. Izzy is working with Nelly using treats as positive reinforcement, to get her used to coming into the consulting room and
helping to build her confidence at the vets with routine things that may need to happen, so that it’s not such a scary place!

Nelly is on her third Confidence Clinic Session with Registered Veterinary Nurse Izzy,

We are certainly making progress with Nelly’s confidence. The past two sessions Nelly has been actively and happily approaching Izzy in the room. We even managed to get Nelly on the daunting weight scales, with the encouragement of her favourite Liver Paste and Liki Matt - showed in the second photo!

Nelly is continuing her Confidence Clinic Sessions, to further build her progress up at the vets to aid with future visits 😊🥳

If you are interested in our confidence clinics for your dog, please get in touch with Izzy
Contact us via PetsApp or call in on 02380 620 607

31/10/2023

Our staff at riverside have created some amazing carved pumpkins this Halloween! What fabulous effort have gone into creating these….

Vote your favourite by liking the individual picture to create a winner out of all 6!

🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃

31/10/2023

How fab are these monster cakes made by one of our receptionists for Halloween!

30/10/2023

Have you ever heard of heart worms? These parasites are transmitted by mosquito bites and can cause serious illness in your pets.

Fortunately, they are not usually found in the UK, but they are common in warmer countries, such as southern European countries. If you are travelling with your pet, do not forget to speak to us about preventing heartworm disease before you go!

28/10/2023

This beautiful girl unfortunately escaped her cat carrier prior to entering the building for their appointment with us.

We are hoping you can help us and her owners reunite her. If you have seen this cat in your garden or local to the practice or have any details whatsoever then please give us a call on 02380620607

Her owners are desperate to have her back and we keep our fingers crossed for her safe return

28/10/2023

Thank you! Opened the post to this lovely surprise!

Congratulations to Bridget, Sophie and Lucy who were individually nominated in recognition for their great work 😃

The Petplan Veterinary Awards recognise the fantastic work that goes on in veterinary practices across the UK. Petplan has worked closely with the veterinary profession for over 40 years and hosts these independent industry awards to recognise the hard work and dedication of veterinary staff caring for our pets. If you think your veterinary practice or someone in the practice team deserves to win, complete the nomination form below!

Remember, nominations are anonymous and you can nominate again for the same category or a different category.

https://www.petplan.co.uk/about-petplan/vets/awards/

27/10/2023

It’s national black cat awareness day today!

To celebrate, let’s see pictures of your pawfect black moggies in the comments below 😍🐱

27/10/2023

With firework season just around the corner, we thought we’d share some pointers on how to help keep your pets safe and settled through this season! 🍁🎆🔥🎇

🐱
* Make sure your cat can’t harm themselves should they become scared. Even the most placid of cats can occasionally bolt for cover. Also, make sure they aren’t confined to one room.
* Keep them indoors on the night of the fireworks and block off cat flaps so they can’t escape. Also, avoid leaving home alone.
* Keep out flashes by trying to keep your cat somewhere with no windows or by blacking-out the windows.
* Allow access to their favourite place in the house and try to avoid constantly checking on them if they have chosen to hide there
* Drown out the noise as best as possible by providing background noise from a TV or radio.
* Acting normal is more beneficial than overly reassuring your cat. If you act worried then your cat may think they should be worried too.
* Provide an indoor litter tray in a convenient location. If cats are very anxious, they may avoid visiting the toilet if they feel threatened or scared

🐶
* Take your dog for his usual walk before the fireworks are set off and ensure to keep on a lead at all times as the noise of fireworks may cause to bolt
* Feed a good meal well before the fireworks are due to start
* Ensure your pet is wearing ID so that if they do run away there’s a greater chance of them being returned to you
* Ensure your dog is microchipped
* Get your dog used to loud noises. You can do this using sound therapy, which gradually exposes your dog to noises over time. There are many products available, including free sound-based treatment programmes from Dog’s Trust.

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/fireworks

https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/understanding-your-dog/sound-therapy-for-pets

There are over-the-counter products, such as calming collars , plug-ins , and calming medications that can help your dog feel calm during periods of high stress or anxiety.
Studies have also shown that, thundershirts give a calming effect by providing consistent pressure on your dog’s core! We stock these in practice, give us a message on PetsApp or email us at [email protected] if you want to find out more!

Dogs Trust have partnered with vets Sarah Heath and Jon Bowen to offer you their range of sound based treatment programmes for free. Find out more here.

25/10/2023

Lice. One of the worst nightmares for families with young children! But did you know that our pets can get lice too?

Though it’s not likely that pet lice are transmitted to humans, it’s best to be safe than sorry!

Most flea and tick treatments are also effective against lice, but talk to your vet to make sure your pet is thoroughly protected!

23/10/2023

With Halloween approaching we wanted to give a friendly reminder about how to dispose of your pumpkins afterwards.

It’s not common knowledge that pumpkins actually act as a laxative effect for hedgehogs and most wildlife! Eating pumpkins left out for them can cause diarrhoea and dehydration! This time of year is vital for hedgehogs to gain weight to help survive through the winter months for hibernation❄️🦔

With that being said, we advise to not leave your pumpkins on the ground in gardens, local woods or green spaces! 🎃

21/10/2023

HAPPY CATURDAY! 🐱

This beautiful duo had a wonderful time down the back with the nurses for their appointment! Playing, cuddles and a photo shoot!

How beautiful are they 🐱

20/10/2023

We wanted to say a huge Thankyou to one of our wonderful clients for gifting us this beautiful fruit hamper!

It certainly makes a change from all the cake and biscuits!

🍊🍐🍎🍌🍇🍑🍍

Happy Friday!

19/10/2023

Congratulations to our Emily for passing all your exams 🎉
Emily can now apply to be added to the Register of Veterinary Nurses RVN!

We are all super proud of you and all your hard work! 🥰

19/10/2023

Sarcoptic mange, also commonly known as ‘fox mange’ (as it’s commonly caught from foxes) and also ‘canine scabies’, is a highly contagious skin condition that can make your dog very uncomfortable. Sarcoptes mites are pesky parasites that burrow under the skin, causing the following signs:

👉🏻 An intense itchiness (particularly on the ears and legs) leading to excessive scratching
👉🏻 Red, inflamed skin
👉🏻 Crusty, thickened skin
👉🏻 Skin sores
👉🏻 Lethargy
👉🏻 Hair loss (alopecia)

Contact us if you spot any of these symptoms and remember, staying up-to-date with parasite control can help prevent mange misery.

18/10/2023

*CLOSED FOR APPLICATIONS*

An exciting position has arisen as we are looking to expand our nursing team.

This position will be full time to include covering out of hours. With a view to train as a veterinary nurse by undergoing an apprenticeship.

If your application is successful you will receive a response with an invite to come for an interview!

20/09/2023

Please be aware, on September 21st 2023, there are planned electrical works happening within the practice.

Our out of hours vet will still be contactable on the normal phone lines, should there be an emergency. No other calls will be connected before 10am.