In this time of crisis everyone is having to make constant adjustments to the way they are working to keep themselves and others safe during the pandemic. The British Veterinary Association is appealing to owners to respect veterinary teams who are themselves dealing with adjusted working hours.
He said: “This is a serious public health crisis and it’s vital that we all play a role in stopping the spread of Covid. Veterinary care is still available, but it’s not business as usual. Vets are being asked to restrict the range of services they can provide during these new lockdown periods to support the strong ‘stay at home’ message.
“Vets and nurses may need to cancel some routine appointments or they may need to deliver services remotely – for example, telephone or video consultations. Some practices may ask you to stay outside the building. This is to keep you and the veterinary team safe.”
Mr Russell added: “During the first lockdown we heard worrying reports of clients being abusive to veterinary teams when new measures were put in place. This behaviour cannot be tolerated.
“I’m incredibly proud of our veterinary teams across the UK, who have been working under difficult circumstances throughout the pandemic. Our message to animal owners is please respect your vet, listen to his or her clinical judgement, and follow the Covid-safe measures put in place.”