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Southfield Veterinary Centre

South Walks, Dorchester

Dorset, DT1 1DU


Tel: 01305 262913

 
  Pets
 


At Southfield Veterinary Centre we have dedicated small animal veterinary surgeons with access a full range of modern facilities and the backing of qualified nursing staff. Pet ownership is a joy and a privilege, and getting the wrong pet can cause a lot of heartache to all involved. Our experience with many breeds of dogs and cats means that we can advise you on the best choice for your lifestyle.

Get your pet checked out!
We offer a free check-up for new pets immediately after purchase, to ensure they are in the best of health. This is important: sometimes puppies and kittens are born with problems which can be discovered at this time. The consultation also gives you the chance to ask us about feeding, house-training or any other concerns.

 

     
 

 

Vaccination
We recommend that all puppies and kittens are vaccinated to protect them against potentially harmful diseases. Full protection from diseases in both dogs and cats requires two injections, given a few weeks apart.

Worming
Young animals often carry parasites (worms) which can lead to weight loss: some worms can also infect humans, causing health problems in children. We can advise you on a regular worming programme and provide tablets or powders which are effective against all important worms.

Insurance
We highly recommend pet insurance: please ask for leaflets at reception.

Neutering
Spaying female pets and castrating male ones benefits their health. There are hundreds of unwanted animals already needing homes in rescue centres, and neutering your animal helps to prevent their numbers growing still further.

Dental care
Your pet's teeth need caring for, just like your own! Tooth decay and gum disease lead to bad breath in pets, and can cause pain and suffering - as well as contributing to heart and kidney disease in severe cases. We can teach you how to keep your pet's teeth clean, by brushing teeth and feeding special biscuits. We also provide scaling and polishing of your pet's teeth under light anaesthesia.

Electronic tagging
It is a legal requirement that all dogs be identified with a tag, for instance an engraved disc obtainable at key-cutting shops or locksmiths. Electronic tagging of pets is an increasingly popular method of permanent and tamper-proof identification. A small microchip with its own unique code is inserted under your pet's skin. This can be done quickly in the consulting room and is relatively painless. Please ask reception staff for a leaflet if you would like more information.

The older pet
As your pet grows older, age-related problems such as kidney or heart failure become likely. Regular check-ups including blood screening ca help us to detect changes early and initiate appropriate treatments.

Saying "Goodbye"
Sadly even though we can help to maintain a good quality of life for most elderly pets, treatment options eventually run out. You can count on our support in making the kindest choice for your pet. If putting your pet to sleep is the answer, we can arrange a quiet and dignified occasion when this can be carried out. Afterwards you may like us to arrange cremation for your pet, with return of ashes if you so wish.


 

     

Copyright © 2004 Southfield Veterinary Centre