Tayside and Fife pet owners have been warned of serious disruptions to vet services.
Staff shortages and a huge increase in pandemic pet ownership is creating a “perfect storm” for pet health.
Many veterinary practices across Scotland are at “breaking point” and pet owners are experiencing long waits for non-urgent treatment.
Pet emergency service Vets Now and daytime practices across Scotland within the My Family Vets network have been affected.
They are urging owners to use video consultation services for non-emergencies and to ensure they cancel any routine appointments they can’t keep.
Pandemic puppy boom
Emergency vet Dr Laura Playforth, professional standards director at Vets Now‘s Dunfermline headquarters, says: “The rise in pet ownership has put unprecedented pressure on vet practices across the UK – including Scotland.”
Since the end of 2019, the UK’s dog and cat population has risen by almost 50%, to 12.5 million dogs and 12.2 million cats.
“There simply aren’t enough vets and vet nurses to meet demand,” Dr Playforth continues.
“Add to this coronavirus and self-isolation and we’re facing the perfect storm.”
Vet staff becoming ill from Covid or forced to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace has exacerbated the situation.
Advice for owners
Rising demand for vet services has led to waiting times going up for non-urgent cases.
Dr Playforth says: “Most vets are asking owners to bear with them as waiting times may be longer than normal.
“Bring a book, water and snacks. And remember, if you do have a wait, it generally means your pet is not suffering from anything life-threatening.”
She urged owners to trust their instincts and to always seek veterinary help in emergency situations.
But she added the rise of video consultation services means people can get peace of mind without having to travel to a practice.
Dr Playforth continues: “Almost every veterinary business in the UK is having problems finding good staff.
“Many people don’t realise just how much stress this increased workload has put on vet practices.
“Our priorities are our staff wellbeing and animal welfare, and ensuring all pet owners continue to have an accessible out-of-hours emergency service.”
See Vets Now for further information on video vets and general pet care.