Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service

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Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service

Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service is part of Linnaeus Veterinary Ltd (A Mars Company).

Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service is a state-of-the-art veterinary practice located in Solihull, West Midlands. We provide top-quality care both for pets in the surrounding area and also for those referred to us by their own veterinary surgeons for specialist investigation and treatment. We have a team of highly trained and skilled veterinary specialists working in the fields of:
• O

rthopaedics (bone and joint problems)
• Ophthalmology (eye disorders)
• Neurology (spinal, brain and nerve disorders)
• Spinal surgery (for patients with severe neck or back pain/paralysis)
• Soft tissue surgery (surgery for cancers, airway disorders, hernias, ruptures, blood vessel shunts etc)
• Internal medicine (problems such as vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, diabetes, cancer etc)
• Oncology (cancer diagnosis, surgery and chemotherapy)
• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, CT and MRI scanning)
• Anaesthesia, analgesia, critical care (general anaesthetics and pain management)

For more information about the services we offer and to access a wealth of information about pet care and health issues, see our fantastic website - www.willows.uk.net

Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service is part of the Linnaeus Veterinary Ltd (A Mars Company). You can find our terms of use and privacy policy by visiting:

Privacy statement - https://www.mars.com/privacy
Legal notice - https://willows.uk.net/legal/
Contact Information - https://willows.uk.net/contact/

17/02/2025

Meet our new Rotating Interns! 👋

⭐️ Charlotte graduated from New Zealand in 2021. Since then, she has worked in small animal general practice and part-time as an emergency vet in Australia. Charlotte is particularly interested in Emergency and Critical Care.

⭐️ Fabio graduated from Spain in 2022. After graduation, he worked in an Emergency and Critical Care service in Madrid before moving to the UK and working in General Practice in Manchester. Fabio is interested in both Ophthalmology and Ultrasound.

⭐️ Ieva graduated from Latvia in 2023 and has worked in general practice since then. She is especially interested in Emergency and Critical Care, but she plans to acquire a deeper insight into other specialities before proceeding to work towards becoming a specialist.

⭐️ Dania graduated from Spain in 2021. After graduation, she worked as a veterinary surgeon in General Practice in Leon before completing a rotating internship followed by an internship in Emergency and Critical Care at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Dania then spent a year working as an emergency vet in Barcelona. Dania has a particular interest in Emergency and Critical Care, although she is enthusiastic about learning from the different speciality teams at Willows.

⭐️ Catarina joined us from Portugal, where she graduated in 2023 and has worked as a general practice vet since. She has an interest in Internal Medicine and Imaging and hopes to specialise in one of those areas in the future.

⭐️ Jamile graduated from Italy in 2023 and has worked as a general practitioner and anaesthetist in Milan since. Before joining Willows in 2025, she spent four months in Brazil, her second country, volunteering in a marine wildlife conservation programme. Jamile is keen to improve her knowledge and skills in all fields of small animal veterinary medicine and find her main discipline of interest.

It's great to have you all on the team!

14/02/2025

Happy ! Today, we wanted to share a story of when we mend a broken heart. ❤️‍🩹

Meet Frank who is back to loving life following the installation of his pacemaker.

Dachshund Frank was referred with a third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, which was so severe his heart rate had dropped to only 25 beats per minute compared to the expected rate of around 80 beats per minute. Frank was suffering seizures as a result of poor blood flow to the brain.

Our Cardiology Resident, Sophie Goodrich, explained to Frank's owners that the solution was to implant an emergency pacemaker to restore Frank's normal heart rate.

Surgery on Frank's heart went very well; he recovered perfectly from the procedure and was discharged the following day.

We're so pleased Frank is back to his travels and enjoying life seizure-free.

12/02/2025

📣 New fixed pricing

We’re excited to introduce fixed-price packages for ultrasound and CT diagnostic work-ups within our Internal Medicine service. This ensures specialist-led care is accessible and transparent, helping clients, patients, and referring vets achieve the best outcomes.

Learn more and refer here >> https://bit.ly/4hHIMCQ

10/02/2025

Let’s celebrate Buzz, the brilliant 3-year-old Cocker Spaniel, whose vision has been almost fully restored thanks to the expertise of our Ophthalmology Team! 👏👀

Buzz was referred to Willows with acute onset blindness caused by a rare condition called immune-mediated panuveitis, which is inflammation of the eye’s uvea. While acute blindness due to this condition is uncommon, Buzz responded well to treatment and regained his sight! 🌟

He was treated with oral immunosuppressants, including steroids and cyclosporine, plus topical anti-inflammatory drops. With rapid diagnosis and careful management, Buzz’s vision was nearly fully restored by his five-week recheck!

We’re so pleased to see Buzz back to his happy, healthy self with his bright, beautiful eyes!

04/02/2025

Today is , and we want to celebrate Spencer, a brave fighter who underwent treatment with our team following his cancer diagnosis last year. 🐶🎗️

Spencer was referred to Bryn and our Internal Medicine team in late July after experiencing generalized lymph node swelling and possible seizure activity. 🩺 Further diagnostic testing confirmed B-cell lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. Additionally, our Neurology team suspected that his movement disorder and focal seizures were linked to his condition. Our dedicated medical team immediately sprang into action, providing Spencer with the best possible care. 🏥

Over the next four months, Spencer underwent regular chemotherapy under the expert care of our Medicine and Oncology specialists, supported by our highly skilled Oncology Nursing Team. 💉🐾 Thankfully, his cancer responded quickly, and he soon returned to his happy, energetic self. 🎉

In December, just in time for Christmas, Spencer completed his chemotherapy course. While B-cell lymphoma is rarely curable, ongoing monitoring will help ensure the best possible outcome. We remain hopeful that Spencer will stay in remission and continue to enjoy life to the fullest! 🐕❤️

03/02/2025

Free Face-to-Face Session for Veterinary Professionals!

Join Head of Internal Medicine, Mark Dunning, for an insightful evening of case-based discussions, featuring real and challenging cases we've been asked to advise on. This interactive session will provide a valuable opportunity to explore key aspects of clinical medicine and enhance your approach to complex cases.

Here’s what you need to know:

🗣 Topic: Helping Us, Helping You: A Case-Based Discussion of Our Most Challenging Advice Calls
📆 Date: Wednesday12 February
⏰ Time: 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service

This session will offer multiple examples of how case discussions can support veterinary professionals in progressing investigations, improving patient care, and applying these approaches to future cases.

Places are limited, secure yours now >> https://bit.ly/42GMgBo

31/01/2025

We are excited to introduce Giovanna, a dedicated member of our primary care veterinary team.

Giovanna’s journey with Willows began in 2018 as a Rotating Intern, where she quickly demonstrated her passion for animal care and her commitment to excellence. After gaining valuable experience, she returned to Willows in 2021 as an emergency vet, where she honed her skills in emergency medicine and surgery and provided critical care during challenging hours.

Reflecting on her return, Giovanna shares: “I was very happy to be back because Willows provides such a familiar and welcoming environment. I have also made wonderful friends at work, which makes it even more rewarding.”

Early last year, Giovanna took up the position of primary first-opinion Veterinary Surgeon. Her enthusiasm for providing high-level first-opinion practice is evident when working within our state-of-the-art facilities. This allows her to provide the best possible care for our patients, ensuring they receive the attention and treatment they deserve.

Outside of work, Giovanna enjoys travelling, exploring the countryside and gardening, finding these activities a perfect way to unwind and connect to nature.

Giovanna’s dedication to her work and her compassionate approach to veterinary medicine make her an invaluable member of our team. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make in the lives of our patients and their families.

Welcome, Giovanna!

29/01/2025

Share some love for Dash, a nine-year-old Cocker Spaniel, who was seen as an emergency case in Dermatology due to generalised skin lesions and lethargy.

Initial biopsies performed by his local veterinarian suggested a disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells, known as an immune-mediated disease. However, Dash's condition worsened after treatment was initiated, prompting a referral to our Dermatology team.

Following a thorough clinical evaluation and review of his biopsies, a final diagnosis of pemphigus foliaceus was made.

With targeted therapy, Dash has been in remission for the past five months. His medications are now being gradually tapered, with careful monitoring to ensure sustained improvement.

Dash's case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan in managing complex dermatological conditions. We are thrilled to see Dash thriving again! 🐶💕

27/01/2025

Share some love for Winnie, a five-year-old Cocker Spaniel Cross. 🐶

Winnie was seen in the Dermatology department with a history of generalised itching and unilateral otitis. After a thorough investigation into the causes of her symptoms, including a comprehensive food trial that ruled out food allergies, Winnie was diagnosed with canine atopic dermatitis.

Following her diagnosis, Winnie underwent an intradermal skin test in the Dermatology department to identify specific allergens and has recently started immunotherapy. In addition to this targeted treatment, she is also receiving antiseptic therapy, which may cause mild skin irritation and is in the process of discontinuing her anti-itch medications, which could lead to a temporary increase in itching.

Winnie's condition is being closely monitored; her medications will be tailored over time to ensure she remains comfortable and her symptoms are well managed.

Winnie's journey demonstrates the importance of personalised care, thorough diagnostic workups, and individual treatment plans in managing complex dermatological conditions like atopic dermatitis.

11/01/2025

❗⏰ Last chance to apply - applications close Monday 13 January!

Here's why you should apply for the summer intake of our Rotating Internship Programme:

✅ World-leading multi-disciplinary referral centre
✅ 34 specialists across a range of disciplines
✅ 12+ years established internship programme
✅ State-of-the-art facilities
✅ Unbeatable opportunities for personal development
✅ Award-winning mentorship and wellbeing programme

Discover more and apply here >> https://ow.ly/VoWl50UELjZ

31/12/2024

As we prepare to welcome in 2025, we would like to wish you and your pets a very happy and healthy New Year!

25/12/2024

From all the team here at Willows, we're wishing all our patients and their owners a very Merry Christmas.

23/12/2024

As we all look forward to the festivities the next few days bring, we wanted to let pet owners and referring vets know we are open 24/7, 365 days a year, which means our Specialist-led team are here for you throughout this period, with emergency and out-of-hours provision on bank holidays.

To find out how to access our services over the festive season, click here >> https://bit.ly/3LYfPVp

18/12/2024

Meet lovable Leo, the nine-year-old Miniature Schnauzer whose vision was saved by the Willows team. 🐶

As is commonly the case, Leo was suffering from rapidly developing cataracts as a result of his diabetes, causing a significant decline in his quality of life. He was struggling to navigate around the house and was quickly becoming distressed.

Leo underwent bilateral cataract surgery (phacoemulsification) by EBVS Specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology, Alberto Palella Gomez. The cataracts were removed, and artificial intraocular lenses were placed to allow Leo to regain normal vision. Following surgery, he rapidly regained his vision and was able to enjoy his life once again. After a short period of hospitalisation post-surgery, Leo was discharged and continues to do well three months post-surgery.

Way to go, Leo! 🙌

10/12/2024

Meet Daisy, the five-year-old Labrador who's future looks bright thanks to treatment from Willows' Ophthalmology team.

Daisy was referred to the Ophthalmology team due to a persistent corneal ulcer in her right eye which was causing considerable discomfort.

Corneal ulcers are usually secondary to trauma in dogs. They can subsequently become infected or inflamed. Unfortunately, Daisy failed to respond to medical treatment, and as the degree of inflammation was notable, surgical intervention was advised.

Daisy underwent a superficial keratectomy by our Veterinary Ophthalmology Diplomate of the European College Rodrigo Pinheiro de Lacerda. During the procedure, an operating microscope was used to delicately remove the infected/inflamed layers of the cornea. A contact lens was placed and Daisy was discharged with eye drops and pain relief.

Daisy responded exceptionally well to her treatment. Four days after the procedure, the surgical site had completely healed resulting in full resolution of the ulcer. Daisy was pain free and had an excellent recovery.

04/12/2024

Share some love for heartwarming Harry. 💗

Three-year-old Harry the Dachshund was referred to Willows with hindlimb ataxia, meaning he had lost his balance.

An MRI scan revealed Harry had thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion causing the issue with his hind legs.

Veterinary Surgeon Toby Gemmill performed a hemilaminectomy surgery to remove Harry's slipped disc and decompress the spinal cord.

Happily, Harry recovered well from the operation and was walking well at his four-week post-op checks.

Way to go, Harry! 👏

27/11/2024

Hey Micki you're so fine! 🐱

Fourteen-year-old cat Micki is feline fine once again after she was referred to us for specialist care when large perirenal cysts developed around her kidneys.

Erika Villedieu, RCVS Specialist and European Diplomate in Small Animal Surgery, took charge of Micki's case but even she had never encountered such large cysts.

Thankfully, Erika and Internal Medicine Resident Lucy Yuan were able to carry out a minimally invasive procedure to complete a partial removal of the problematic cysts.

Micki is now back with her loving family and enjoying life once again! You can read the full story via the Solihull Observer >>> https://bit.ly/40vqYp0

22/11/2024

Share some love for Sirius, the eight-month-old Afghan Hound.

Sirius was referred to our Emergency Critical Care Specialist, Dave Beeston, for treatment for possible necrotising fasciitis, also known as the “flesh-eating disease” which gets worse quickly and can be fatal if prompt treatment is not given.

Following a CT scan to confirm the condition, Sirius had emergency surgery by Soft Tissue Specialist Kine Elmenhorst and Surgery Resident Eugenio Gaudio. The infected areas were removed, and Sirius stayed in our intensive care unit on IV antibiotics and pain medications until the infection was under control. Sirius then required a second surgery to reconstruct the wounds on his leg and abdomen given the large wounds he had sustained.

Thankfully, both surgeries were successful and Sirius made a full recovery, allowing him to return to living his best puppy life.

Address

Willows Veterinary Centre, Highlands Road, Shirley
Solihull
B904NH

Telephone

+441217127070

Website

https://www.willows.uk.net/

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A legacy of excellence. 🙌 Take a look behind the scenes of our world-leading referral hospital. Find out more: https://bit.ly/4f9OzA1 #WillowsVeterinaryCentre #CommittedToExcellence #ProudlyWillows #ProudlyLinnaeus

🌍 This Week is World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), and this week's theme is "Educate. Advocate. Act now." Antibiotic resistance is a serious global issue that affects both humans and animals. It's crucial to protect the effectiveness of antibiotics so they can continue to save lives when truly needed. 💊 You can make a difference... 👉 Check your cupboards and fridge for expired or unused pet medications. 👉 Bring any no-longer-needed veterinary medicines to our practice for safe disposal. Together, we can help combat antibiotic resistance and safeguard the health of pets, people, and the planet. Let's #KeepAntibioticsWorking – it's a collective effort, and every small step counts. #AMR #WAAW2024 #AntibioticAmnesty #PetHealth #ProtectOurFuture

#MeetOurPatient Meet lovely Lizzy, a 13-year-old Lurcher. 🐶 Lizzy was referred to Will Robinson, our Head of Soft Tissue Surgery service, for surgical management of an incompletely excised tumour, known as a soft tissue sarcoma. A CT scan performed by Specialist-led Diagnostic Imaging and Oncology teams did not find any evidence of metastatic spread, so the decision was made to try to achieve local control by removing the previous surgical scar and one of the hamstring muscles that ran underneath the scar, the biceps femoris muscle. Despite her older age, we felt that surgery offered Lizzy the best chance to minimise the tumour's ability to regrow locally and, therefore, hopefully, provide a cure, so her owner agreed to proceed with surgery. We are pleased to report that surgery went well, and Lizzy has recovered brilliantly despite missing one of her hamstring muscles. As you can see from the videos, she is using the left hind leg well and is adapting brilliantly. We have everything crossed that this is the end of her cancer journey, and she can enjoy her golden years in peace. #WillowsVeterinaryCentre #CommittedToExcellence #ProudlyWillows #ProudlyLinnaeus #Lurcher

#MeetOurPatient Meet Ted, who underwent groundbreaking dual surgeries in a single day at Willows! 🐶 Initially referred to our Neurology team for suspected lumbar pain, Ted's condition took an unexpected turn when an MRI revealed a migrating foreign body in his lumbar muscles – possibly a grass seed causing severe inflammation and an abscess in the spinal cord. With the skilled coordination of our Soft Tissue team led by Will Robinson, and our Neurology experts, Cristina Toni, Specialist in Veterinary Neurology and Victoria Indzhova, Resident in Veterinary Neurology Ted's exploratory laparotomy successfully located and removed the grass seed lodged near the vena cava (the main vein the abdomen). Ted subsequently underwent a hemilaminectomy (to access the spinal cord) led by our Neurology team to remove all infected material. Ted's post-surgical journey was meticulously overseen by our Specialist Emergency and Critical Care team, providing support during his two-week hospital stay. But the journey didn't end there. With our Veterinary Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation team, led by Emma Box and supported by Holly Hitchins and Lorna Turner, Ted embarked on a four-month journey of recovery. From land-based physiotherapy to hydrotherapy, every step of this rehabilitation was personalised. From diagnosis and surgery to aftercare, we're proud to have been part of Ted's incredible journey back to health. #WillowsVeterinaryCentre #CommittedToExcellence #ProudlyWillows #ProudlyLinnaeus

At Willows, our Registered Veterinary Nurses make things possible! We turn obstacles into opportunities; complex cases bring our multidisciplinary teams together, and trusted colleagues become lifelong friends. 💙 ✔️ Is it challenging? Yes ✔️ Do we put in hard work? Undoubtedly But we wouldn’t have it any other way because, at Willows, those who give their best receive the most in return while making A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.🐾 To find out more about our referral nursing opportunities, click here >> https://ow.ly/1O0350Qw35z #WillowsVeterinaryCentre #CommittedToExcellence #ProudlyWillows #ProudlyLinnaeus #RVN #VetNurse

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Extraordinary Vets for Extraordinary Pets

Willows is one of Europe’s leading Specialist small animal referral centres, delivering Specialist pet healthcare for over 30 years. Our state-of-the-art hospital located in Shirley, Solihull is led by internationally renowned Specialists committed to providing the very highest standards of veterinary care.

To find out more about Willows, the services offered and our team visit willows.uk.net