We are all facing huge upheaval at the moment as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, understandably lots of people want to know how this will affect their pet getting veterinary treatment.

The first thing I have to point out is that Covid-19 is not transmissible to pets and they cannot act as carriers. They are more likely to be affected by the impact of their owners self isolating.

Vets will remain open and offering a service to their clients – clinics may vary and it is worth contacting your vet to see if they are altering working hours or have made any specific plans. At our practice we are seeing clients as usual but we are asking that owners stay in their cars with their pets and phone in to say they have arrived – we can then discuss their pets' symptoms and bring the pet into the surgery without the risk of the owner having to be in a crowded waiting room. We are being extremely vigilant with hygiene – not just endlessly disinfecting our own hands but also religiously cleaning door handles and all areas of client contact.

Animals will continue to need veterinary care and we vets and vet nurses will provide that care. Obviously, what you can do to help us is not come to the vets yourself if you have exhibited any symptoms in the preceding 14 days; ideally get someone else to bring your pet in to us and we can always speak to you over the phone about symptoms and treatment plans.

So do not panic, we will get through this, vets will always be there for your pets.