West Mount Vets

01/07/2025

**BACK TO SCHOOL**

A few months ago two of our lovely staff members had an amazing time when they visited Mount Pleasant Primary School to talk to the kids about what its like to be a vet, caring for animals and why animals are so important in our lives.

The kids asked some great questions, stories and got involved - including bandaging a poorly foot for Dougal our (Toy) dog and dressing up as a surgeon 🥼

Big thank you to all the teachers and staff at Mount Pleasant Primary School for having us and Bug the Pug!
@ https://www.mountpleasantschool.co.uk

29/06/2025

Did you know that 50-90% of cats over four years old experience some form of dental illness?
We’re shining a light on pet oral health with our Summer Smiles dental promotion☀️
What’s included:
🦷 Free dental check up for your cat or dog
🦷Free toothbrush kit

Learn more about the signs of dental disease in cats and why regular dental care matters here:

Learn about the types of dental disease found in cats, and ways to treat and prevent them from a leading dentistry expert.

27/06/2025

Rabbit Awareness Week
Rabbits need annual vaccinations, just like cats and dogs. Vaccinations protect against Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD), both of which can be fatal.
It is recommended to neuter all rabbits.
Male-female pairs require neutering to prevent breeding, but same-sex pairs can fight if not neutered.
Female rabbits also have an 80% chance of developing cancer of the uterus during
their lifetime, which is eliminated by neutering.

Find out more about veterinary care for rabbits:
vetcollection.co.uk/health/rabbit-care-guide

26/06/2025

Please take a second to read, we know it’s quite worrying to see such a young bird on the ground but often this is their natural way of learning.

Unless clear indication to step in (wounds, broken wings) we always advise to observe first. Of course you are more than welcome to ring the practice regarding any advice - please be sure to note Avain Influenza is still prominent 🐦

We have had an influx of baby birds being brought into us recently. 🐦

If you find a fledgling (a young bird that has left the nest but isn’t fully flying yet), it is best to leave it alone unless it is currently in immediate danger. ⚠️

It is highly likely that their parents are nearby and still caring for the fledgling. 🪺

If they have found themselves in a dangerous spot eg: on a road, please carefully place them in a close location to where they were found but sheltered from the danger. This way their parents can still locate them. ⚠️

If you have any concerns about a birds well being please contact the practice or a local wildlife rescue, BEFORE attempting to remove the fledgling from their environment. 🐦

26/06/2025

Rabbit Awareness Week

Providing the correct nutrition for your rabbit can prevent a lot of common health problems.
A rabbit’s diet should be predominantly fibre, as they need to chew almost continuously their teeth grow throughout their lives and chewing helps prevent them overgrowing.

Find out what a rabbit’s diet should include:
vetcollection.co.uk/health/rabbit-care-guide

25/06/2025

Rabbit Awareness Week

Rabbits are social creatures and should be kept in pairs or larger groups. Introducing adult rabbits can lead to potentially lethal fighting; don't be tempted to get one rabbit
and add a friend later.
Once two or more rabbits are bonded, they should remain together, including for vet trips.
It is no longer recommended to keep rabbits and guinea pigs together as it is very difficult to meet both animals’ needs.

Find out more about general care for rabbits:
vetcollection.co.uk/health/rabbit-care-guide

24/06/2025

Cats are known to be mischief-makers at the best of times, but have you ever experienced an encounter during a Zoom call where your feline friend decided to make a surprise appearance?
Whether it's casually strolling across the keyboard, blocking the camera with their tail, or loudly meowing for attention, cats have a knack for stealing the spotlight just when you need to appear most professional.
We’d love to hear your funniest cat Zoom moments - share your stories with us in the comments!

22/06/2025

Sadly, there is not a National Health Service for our pets.

Unexpected veterinary costs can be a concern for a lot of people in the current economic environment.
Having a pet insurance policy in place can help take away any potential anxiety or financial limitations of treatment options.
Speak to us today to find out more about pet insurance and for more information:
vetcollection.co.uk/health-plans-and-products/guide-to-pet-insurance/

20/06/2025

With summer holidays approaching, many of us will be out having fun in the sun with our canine companions. Parks, footpaths and beaches are wonderful places to enjoy the outdoors with our dogs - but they’re also shared spaces, and a little consideration goes a long way.
🏖 Plan your adventures ahead. If you're heading to an attraction or beauty spot, check first whether dogs are welcome. On warmer days, take trips early or late in the day and factor in breaks to seek shade and water.
🐕 Not every dog (or human) is comfortable being approached or wants to say hi. Keep your pooch under close control or on a lead, ask before letting them approach, and give others space where needed.
💩 Pick up their p**p and bin the bag. No exceptions!
Thank you for helping to make summer adventures pleasant for everyone

18/06/2025

Hearing Dogs

A peek at tiny Hearing Dogs Taylor during her puppy class. Taylor is in the first stage of her hearing dog training where she's being encouraged to explore new objects and build her confidence in trying new things.
Well done Taylor!
You can donate to our charity of the year, Hearing Dogs, when you visit us in practice

16/06/2025

Chris, one of our Registered Veterinary Surgeons, has been working for us and caring for Calderdale’s pets since 1995 and is proud to lead the team at our West Vale branch of West Mount Vets. As Branch Manager, Chris is passionate about supporting both clients and colleagues – including mentoring new graduates, and currently working closely with Issy as she progresses through her Vet Graduate Development Programme.

Chris is also one of our Dog Friendly Advocates, working with the Dog’s Trust to ensure visits to the vet are as calm and positive as possible for our canine companions. This role reflects a deep commitment to understanding dog behaviour and improving welfare in the clinical setting.

Outside of the consulting room, Chris runs Don't Stop Retrievein' , a local dog training business helping owners build well-mannered, confident dogs using kind, reward-based methods. Recently recognised as a Kennel Club Listed Organisation Chris now offers puppies the chance to gain their Good Citizen Dog Scheme Puppy Foundation Award as part of his structured courses – a fantastic opportunity for any new puppy owner.

Whether in practice or in the training hall, Chris is dedicated to supporting dogs and their families on their journey together.

To follow along with Chris:
https://dontstopretrievin.co.uk
Don't Stop Retrievin'

16/06/2025

*URGENT NOTICE*

UPDATE: we are now back up and running, able to take calls and access computers - thank you for your understanding.

Currently the Halifax Branch is not receiving calls nor are we able to call out from the practice due to technical issues.
We are working to sort this swiftly - we appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

Please contact the branches below for any emergencies/appointments and they will do their best to help.

West Vale: 01422 376702
Huddersfield: 01484 533035
Mytholmroyd: 01422 889970