Cave Veterinary Specialists

Cave Veterinary Specialists Cave is part of Linnaeus Veterinary Ltd (A Mars Company) Cave Veterinary Specialists is part of Linnaeus Veterinary Ltd (A Mars Company).

Cave Veterinary Specialists provide expert care for cats and dogs that are referred to us by their own veterinary surgeons. This care is provided by our team of highly trained specialists working in a number of disciplines and supported by a compassionate and skilled nursing team. You can find our terms of use and privacy policy by visiting:

Privacy statement - www.mars.com/privacy
Legal notice

- www.cave-vet-specialists.co.uk/legal-notice
Contact Information - www.cave-vet-specialists.co.uk/contact-us

Registration for our next Nurse Club webinar is still open.It is common for patients to get cold during procedures, but ...
19/09/2024

Registration for our next Nurse Club webinar is still open.

It is common for patients to get cold during procedures, but this doesn't have to be the case. There is no reason why the majority of your patients shouldn't reach recovery normothermic.

In this Nurse Club webinar, RVNs Charlotte Forder and Debbie Howe will talk about the problem with hypothermia and what we can do to keep our patients warm during procedures.

To register for this event >> https://bit.ly/3z11eFS

What are the clinical signs of Intervertebral Disc Extrusion?The first and early signs of intervertebral disc extrusion ...
18/09/2024

What are the clinical signs of Intervertebral Disc Extrusion?

The first and early signs of intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) are often non-specific. You may notice that your dog is:

πŸ”΄ Quieter than usual
πŸ”΄ Reluctant to exercise
πŸ”΄ No longer goes up or down steps
πŸ”΄ Has a hunched posture or yelps when being picked up.

Pain caused by a spinal condition can also present as abdominal pain.

Signs often progress as more intervertebral disc material extrudes, further compressing the spinal cord. Depending on the location of the affected disc, your pet may start:

πŸ”΄ Crossing their legs over
πŸ”΄ Have weakness in their back legs
πŸ”΄ Have an uncoordinated walking pattern or in severe cases
πŸ”΄ Be unable to get up and drag their legs behind them.

Our Neurology team are always on hand to support your Veterinary Surgeon with advice or referrals for further diagnostic tests and treatment.

Registration for our next Nurse Club webinar is now open.It is common for patients to get cold during procedures, but th...
12/09/2024

Registration for our next Nurse Club webinar is now open.

It is common for patients to get cold during procedures, but this doesn't have to be the case. There is no reason why the majority of your patients shouldn't reach recovery normothermic.

In this Nurse Club webinar, RVNs Charlotte Forder and Debbie Howe will talk about the problem with hypothermia and what we can do to keep our patients warm during procedures.

To register for this event >> https://bit.ly/3z11eFS

This month, we'll be shining a spotlight on Intervertebral Disc Extrusion. So, what is Intervertebral Disc Extrusion? πŸ€” ...
11/09/2024

This month, we'll be shining a spotlight on Intervertebral Disc Extrusion.

So, what is Intervertebral Disc Extrusion? πŸ€”

Intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) is a common spinal condition in chondrodystrophic (long and low) dogs e.g. Dachshund, Shih-Tzu and Pekingese as well as French Bulldogs.

The intervertebral disc is a spongy, doughnut-shaped pad between the vertebrae sitting underneath the spinal cord and is made of a mixture of different types of collagen and water.

In some breeds, the disc degenerates due to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and the outer layer of the disc becomes weak, with the inner material becoming hard and dehydrated. Disc degeneration occurs due to age, breed, genetic and environmental factors.

With intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE), the inner dehydrated disc material "extrudes" through the weakened outer layer and goes up towards the spinal cord causing compression and sometimes bruising.

This compression and bruising of the cord interrupts the "messages" that are passed along the spinal cord from the brain to the nerves that control movement of the limbs, bladder, tail and other functions.

Our Neurology team are always on hand to support your Veterinary Surgeon with advice or referrals for further diagnostic tests and treatment.

Registration is still open for our next Vet CPD webinar.The treatment of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has been re...
10/09/2024

Registration is still open for our next Vet CPD webinar.

The treatment of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has been revolutionised in recent years. FIP has evolved from a universally fatal condition, to one where we can achieve very high treatment response rates, and excellent long-term prognoses.

In this CPD webinar Internal Medicine Specialist, Nele Van den Steen will share the latest thinking on the treatment of FIP and how best we can care for patients.

To register for this event >> https://bit.ly/3XrfLnG

Disc degeneration can happen due to age, breed, genetic and environmental factors.  With intervertebral disc extrusion (...
09/09/2024

Disc degeneration can happen due to age, breed, genetic and environmental factors. With intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE), the inner dehydrated disc material "extrudes" through the weakened outer layer that goes up towards the spinal cord causing compression and sometimes bruising.

This compression and bruising of the cord interrupt the "messages" that are passed along the spinal cord from the brain to the nerves that control the movement of the limbs, bladder, tail and other functions. Hemilaminectomy is a surgical procedure used in dogs to address disc extrusion or herniated discs in the thoracolumbar spine.

Here are some key symptoms to keep an eye on:

πŸ”΄ Back pain
πŸ”΄ Lameness
πŸ”΄ Incoordination
πŸ”΄ Inability to walk
πŸ”΄ Difficulty urinating

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your primary care vet URGENTLY for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

We guarantee one fixed price for all TPLO patients across all weights. Plus, we accept all TPLO cases immediately and se...
05/09/2024

We guarantee one fixed price for all TPLO patients across all weights.

Plus, we accept all TPLO cases immediately and see patients within 48 hours. TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) is the most effective surgery for pets suffering with cruciate disease.

Learn more and refer here >> https://bit.ly/3Z5LZWR

Congratulations to our new Clinical Director, Will McFadzean!πŸ‘  Will graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2010...
04/09/2024

Congratulations to our new Clinical Director, Will McFadzean!πŸ‘

Will graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2010 and then completed an internship in a busy referral hospital in Berkshire. He subsequently worked in both first opinion and referral practices before starting a residency in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia at the University of Bristol in 2014. During his residency, he completed an RCVS Advanced Certificate in Veterinary Anaesthesia.

Will joined Cave Veterinary Specialists in 2017 and passed his specialist diploma exam in 2019. Will was made Head of Specialist Services in 2021, leading our anaesthesia and imaging departments.

Once again, congratulations, Will!

Registration is now open for our next Vet CPD webinar.The treatment of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has been revo...
03/09/2024

Registration is now open for our next Vet CPD webinar.

The treatment of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has been revolutionised in recent years. FIP has evolved from a universally fatal condition, to one where we can achieve very high treatment response rates, and excellent long-term prognoses.

In this CPD webinar Internal Medicine Specialist, Nele Van den Steen will share the latest thinking on the treatment of FIP and how best we can care for patients.

To register for this event >> https://bit.ly/3XrfLnG

Take a look at this incredible (and very tasty!) cake we received from one of our lovely clients, Buddy Mutters ❀️Thank ...
02/09/2024

Take a look at this incredible (and very tasty!) cake we received from one of our lovely clients, Buddy Mutters ❀️

Thank you, Buddy, it went down a treat with our staff!

Due to growing demand we’re excited to announce we are now recruiting for a number of nurse roles: - Night RVN (full tim...
31/08/2024

Due to growing demand we’re excited to announce we are now recruiting for a number of nurse roles:

- Night RVN (full time)
- Rotational Day RVN (full-time)
- Rotational Day RVN (part-time)
- Rotational Day RVN (FTC, part-time)

If you’re passionate about providing gold standard nursing care and want to work with state-of -the-art facilities, alongside some of the UK’s top specialists then we’d love to hear from you. Referral nursing experience is not a necessity as you will receive comprehensive training and support.

We recognise a strong nursing team is the backbone of a successful practice. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, caring and supportive team that provides the perfect environment for you to flourish. A nursing career with Cave will give you the opportunity to grow into the role you aspire to.

To see our current vacancies and apply visit>> www.cave-vet-specialists.co.uk/careers

Happy National Beach Day! πŸŒŠπŸ–οΈWe're incredibly lucky in the South-West to have access to so many beautiful beaches and th...
30/08/2024

Happy National Beach Day! πŸŒŠπŸ–οΈ

We're incredibly lucky in the South-West to have access to so many beautiful beaches and the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities. However, with the warmer weather, we've seen an increasing number of cases involving hazards which pets have found on the beach.

One of the many hazards we've recently treated pets for is wooden kebab sticks. On one occasion we had two cases in a single day where pets had swallowed these dangerous objects.

While we all enjoy the beach, it's important to be aware that these discarded kebab sticks can pose a serious risk to pets. In one instance, we had to remove an eight-inch kebab stick from a dog, and, unfortunately, in some cases, these sticks have caused severe internal injuries, puncturing organs like the liver and spleen, leading to serious complications.

Common symptoms of foreign body ingestion include:
πŸ”΄ Vomiting
πŸ”΄ Retching
πŸ”΄ Yelping in pain or unusual behaviour

If you suspect your pet may have swallowed something harmful, please consult your vet immediately.

Learn more about Teddy's injury after visiting his favourite beach, here >> https://bit.ly/4d5yKcJ

πŸŽ‰ Congratulations to Bryony on achieving her Veterinary Technician Specialist in Neurology qualification! 🌟As one of onl...
28/08/2024

πŸŽ‰ Congratulations to Bryony on achieving her Veterinary Technician Specialist in Neurology qualification! 🌟

As one of only six Registered Veterinary Nurses in the UK and just 35 worldwide to hold this prestigious status, Bryony has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication. Her rigorous application process and mastery of neurology culminated in a challenging examination, reflecting her deep commitment and expertise. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to her hard work and will undoubtedly benefit many more animals in the future. πŸΎπŸ‘

Regarding her motivation for undertaking the VTS, Bryony explained, "There are very few neurology-specific qualifications for Registered Veterinary Nurses. I have always wanted to achieve VTS status, and so when I realized I enjoyed nursing the neurology patients, I knew it would be in the neurology discipline."

We are so very proud of Bryony!

 Danielle Whelan, one of our exceptional Registered Veterinary Nurses, reflects on her unwavering dedication and growth ...
27/08/2024



Danielle Whelan, one of our exceptional Registered Veterinary Nurses, reflects on her unwavering dedication and growth during her six-year journey at Cave. ❀

"I have now worked at Cave for nearly six years, and for the last two years, I have been immersing myself in my passion for imaging by training with the imaging team in CT.

"In the past year, I've gained significant confidence in performing CT scans, including complex procedures such as angiograms to identify portosystemic shunts and IVUs to locate ectopic ureters. To complement my hands-on experience, I have completed the Essentials of Veterinary CT and Essentials of Veterinary MRI courses, which have provided a solid theoretical foundation. Recently, I've begun training in MRI full-time, and I am thoroughly enjoying the process.

"My new role as an imaging and rotational nurse allows me to continue engaging in all aspects of the job I love, from fluoroscopy and CT to surgery."

We are incredibly lucky to have Danielle on our team, and we cannot wait to see what the next six years and beyond holds for her at Cave!

AUGUST BANK HOLIDAYOur veterinary team will be available throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend to provide care and ...
23/08/2024

AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY

Our veterinary team will be available throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend to provide care and support for any urgent or emergency cases.

If you have an urgent referral or need immediate assistance, please call our hospital at: 01823 653510 πŸ“ž

Thirty veterinary nurses from across the South West gathered for our groundbreaking congress event in Plymouth, marking ...
21/08/2024

Thirty veterinary nurses from across the South West gathered for our groundbreaking congress event in Plymouth, marking the first road trip for our Nurse CPD Club! πŸš—πŸ’¨

This successful event highlights the dedication of our Head of Nursing Services, Bryony Gilder, and Patient Flow Coordinator, Felicity Maxfield.

The full-day congress, named β€˜SEA-P-D’, featured seven insightful lectures on clinical knowledge, practical skills, leadership, and well-being.

And it wasn’t all work and no play! πŸŽ‰ In the afternoon, attendees enjoyed some well-deserved relaxation with yoga and paddleboarding, adding a fun twist to their professional development.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event both memorable and enriching! πŸŒŸπŸ‘

To learn more about the Plymouth Nurse CPD congress, click here >> https://bit.ly/46KR74c

19/08/2024



Meet Dulcia Sweet-Nicklin, our new Patient Care Assistant πŸ‘‹

Let’s hear from Dulcia herself about why she chose this role and what she’s excited about:

πŸ—£ "I wanted to become a PCA because I have always had a passion for caring for animals and wanted to build on what I’ve already learned.

"Before joining Cave, I worked in the retail pet industry, where I gained valuable knowledge about pet nutrition, products, behaviour, and enrichment. In my spare time, I’ve been learning agility with my dogs and even earned a dog first aid training certificate.

"Being involved in patients' journeys at Cave has been incredibly interesting. I especially enjoy seeing X-rays and MRIs and learning how to run lab tests.

"My first month has flown by, and I’ve already learned so much. I’m excited to continue gaining knowledge and training to become the best PCA I can be."

Welcome to the team, Dulcia! We’re thrilled to have you with us. 🌟

Neurology and Neurosurgery look at disorders of the nervous system that can be urgent and require rapid care. Our team o...
16/08/2024

Neurology and Neurosurgery look at disorders of the nervous system that can be urgent and require rapid care.

Our team of specialists are able to investigate, diagnose and treat medical and surgical conditions which involve the nervous system (central and peripheral) and can quickly work to achieve the best outcome for the patient.

Using our state-of-the-art facilities, our clinicians can provide a comprehensive investigation of these neurology and neurosurgery conditions.

With our advanced technology, we are able to offer patients:

βœ… MRI and CT Scans
βœ… Ultrasound and Radiography
βœ… Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis (CSF)
βœ… Electrophysiologic Evaluation of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerve and Muscle Function
βœ… Hearing Evaluation

Our Neurology and Neurosurgery Specialists work closely with colleagues from Diagnostic Imaging and Anaesthesia to provide complete multidisciplinary care. We aim to provide care that is professional and compassionate, ensuring owners are fully included in all decisions regarding the diagnosis and management of their pet’s condition.

Registration is still open for our next Nurse Club webinar.Surgical patients make up a large proportion of our inpatient...
15/08/2024

Registration is still open for our next Nurse Club webinar.

Surgical patients make up a large proportion of our inpatient population. We can split their nursing into three distinct areas; pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative. Knowledge and understanding of what is required during these periods will enable nurses and PCAs to better look after patients and provide patient-focused care.

In this webinar Theatre and Surgery Team Leader, Debbie Howe we will look at each of these areas in turn and discuss the nursing care required for each.

Date: Thursday 29th Aug
Time: 7:30pm

To register >> https://bit.ly/46uzQMT

 🐢 Remarkable Ruby, a two-year-old Labrador, was rushed to us after being hit by a van.David Haine, our Head of Surgery,...
14/08/2024



🐢 Remarkable Ruby, a two-year-old Labrador, was rushed to us after being hit by a van.

David Haine, our Head of Surgery, urgently performed a CT scan that revealed Ruby had multiple pelvic fractures and an abdominal wall rupture, which had displaced her bladder.

David and his team carried out emergency surgery to repair the herniated bladder, place it back into the abdomen, and perform complex repairs to her pelvis and hip.

After surgery, Ruby required extensive nursing care and support before she could return home to her loving owners, who are diligently following David’s advice to aid her recovery. ❀

You can read more about Ruby's story here >> https://bit.ly/4fsHg77

 We’re excited to announce that our wonderful Leah has transitioned from the Client Care Team to become a Patient Care A...
12/08/2024



We’re excited to announce that our wonderful Leah has transitioned from the Client Care Team to become a Patient Care Assistant! 🌟

Here’s why Leah was eager to embrace this new role:

βœ… "It’s hands-on and allows me to get involved behind the scenes."
βœ… "I look forward to interacting with and caring for the animals who come in."
βœ… "I’m passionate about developing my skills in animal care within the veterinary field."
βœ… "This role offers great future opportunities and growth."

We have no doubt that Leah will thrive in her new position and continue to make a fantastic impact!

 Introducing: "Limitations of CT Imaging for Neurology Patients" 🧠In this insightful webinar, Simon dives into the use a...
09/08/2024



Introducing: "Limitations of CT Imaging for Neurology Patients" 🧠

In this insightful webinar, Simon dives into the use and limitations of CT imaging in neurology. He covers the indications for assessing both the vertebral column and the head and explores the challenges and limitations associated with CT imaging for these investigations.

Don’t miss out - watch the full webinar here: https://bit.ly/3WLvwW4

Today is  , and we're thrilled to share that we are proud to be accredited as an ISFM Cat-Friendly Clinic! 🐱The Internat...
08/08/2024

Today is , and we're thrilled to share that we are proud to be accredited as an ISFM Cat-Friendly Clinic! 🐱

The International Society for Feline Medicine launched the cat-friendly clinic initiative to encourage practices to make changes to improve the welfare of cats in their care.

Senior Ward Veterinary Nurse Kim Kendall coordinated our accreditation process and said: β€œWe’re incredibly proud to have achieved this prestigious silver cat-friendly clinic recognition. It has been a real team effort and is a fitting reward for everyone’s hard work and dedication."

Well done to Kim and our whole team on achieving this purr-fect accreditation!

Our Post Registration Programme is an exceptional year-long initiative designed to prepare newly qualified nurses (0-12 ...
05/08/2024

Our Post Registration Programme is an exceptional year-long initiative designed to prepare newly qualified nurses (0-12 months registered) for a fulfilling career in veterinary referral nursing.

We’re excited to announce that Anna and Amy are the latest success stories from this programme, and they’re joining our permanent nursing team! πŸŽ‰ They are also the very first students from Cave to stay on in full-time roles.

Throughout the programme, Anna and Amy gained invaluable experience by rotating through various departments, including wards, theatre, and diagnostics.

Please join us in congratulating Anna and Amy on their new roles. We can’t wait to see the incredible contributions they’ll make next! πŸ‘

Registration is now open for our next Nurse Club webinar.Surgical patients make up a large proportion of our inpatient p...
03/08/2024

Registration is now open for our next Nurse Club webinar.

Surgical patients make up a large proportion of our inpatient population. We can split their nursing into three distinct areas; pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative. Knowledge and understanding of what is required during these periods will enable nurses and PCAs to better look after patients and provide patient-focused care.

In this webinar Theatre and Surgery Team Leader, Debbie Howe we will look at each of these areas in turn and discuss the nursing care required for each.

Date: Thursday 29th Aug
Time: 7:30pm

To register >> https://bit.ly/46uzQMT

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George's Farm
Wellington
TA219LE

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