Vets get 300pc more calls amid rush to buy lockdown puppies

Taverham Vets, which has branches in Costessey, Aylsham and Taverham, has seen a 300pc increase in calls per day after putting measures in place to protect customers during the pandemic period.

As part of the Covid-compliant changes, customers are consulted over the phone so the vets can decide whether they need to visit the site or not.

A car park collection service is in place in which pets are collected from vehicles for their appointments as no clients are currently allowed inside the buildings.

Veterinary nurse Emma Piggot brings back Sam the cat to owner Ian Watson in his car at Taverham Vets Hospital. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Veterinary nurse Hayley Hyam said: "We have been exceptionally busy throughout the entirety of lockdown. We are really proud to provide around the clock care with all three of the branches remaining open.

"There has been a big increase in puppy purchasing during lockdown which has made us extra busy ensuring they are all vaccinated as an essential service as they are so vulnerable when they are small."

Although no staff have been able to receive the vaccination as this stage, the company has been well stocked with personal protective equipment [PPE] and no staff are on furlough at the moment.

Benji, two, left, and Bruno,11-months-old, are collected from the car by Taylor Powley, left, student veterinary nurse, and Carley Thorne, veterinary nurse at Taverham Vets. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Despite having to adapt and rely on digital services for safety reasons at the moment, staff do not envisage these becoming long-term changes.

Mrs Hyam said: "Most people would prefer to return to normal which would be more personal. Pets are part of families and we would love to be able to see them in person again.

"We are so proud to be remain open throughout the pandemic and we are proud of the team's efforts. Animals deserve good healthcare and essential treatment."

Veterinary nurse Frances Culley, brings Misty the whippet out to her owner, Mel Kiddle, after Misty's surgery at Taverham Vets. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Taverham Vets typically cares for cats and dogs, but sees a variety of animals including rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens.

The British Veterinary Association [BVA] has said there is no evidence to suggest pets should be vaccinated against Covid, and Taverham Vets has emphasised owners should not panic over this.

The BVA states there is no evidence that pets are passing Covid-19 to their owners, and that there have been a very small number of cases reported in animals worldwide.

Owner Mark Allbrook is happy to have six-year-old Skye back after she had to have stitches at Taverham Vets. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Bruno, left, 11-months-old, and Benji, two, in the car waiting to be collected by the nurses at Taverham Vets. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Vet Chrislyn Coolman, brings Jack Russell puppy, 11-week-old Coco, back to her owner after Coco had her puppy inoculations. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Jack Russell puppy 11-week-old Coco, back with her owner Camilla Cross after Coco had her puppy inoculations. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Philippa Evans, whose job title is 'guardian of the door' at Taverham Vets, checks in clients for their appointments in the car park. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)

Taverham Vets Hospital practice manager, Joy Thompson. The vets and nurses are meeting clients in the carpark as they work through lockdown. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Picture: DENISE BRADLEY Copyright: Archant 2021)