Our veterinary practice in Sheffield has been honoured with a prestigious award for our high quality of care for dogs.
Peak Vets has received Dog Friendly Clinic accreditation from Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, and the British Veterinary Behaviour Association (BVBA).
Ashleigh Kubie, registered veterinary nurse (RVN) at Peak Vets, speaking on behalf of the team at Peak Vets, said: “It’s fantastic that Peak Vets has been recognised by the Dogs Trust as a dog-friendly practice.
“It’s been a real team effort, not least thanks to former colleague Sarah Thynne, to create a canine environment that benefits our patients, our clients and our team.”
Specific measures taken at Peak Vets include the introduction of non-slip mats so that dogs can be examined on the floor, along with dog-friendly treats, including liver paste, to be given as a reward.
There are now separate areas for dogs and cats waiting in reception to help keep both canines and felines calm when visiting the practice.
Ashleigh added: “We wanted Peak Vets to become a dog-friendly practice as I have a dog that is dog-reactive and has needed to wear a muzzle. He isn’t a bad dog and I wanted to be an advocate for dogs that are misunderstood.
“We wanted people to understand that a dog wearing a muzzle can be for many reasons and that they shouldn’t be treated with less respect.”
Dr Rachel Casey, Director of Strategy and Transformation at Dogs Trust, said: “Veterinary care is an essential part of dogs’ lives, but some find visits to the vets stressful.
“We are very pleased to collaborate with the BVBA to create the Dog Friendly Clinic scheme to help veterinary practices embed the principles of behavioural medicine into clinic life.
“Vet clinics are at the forefront of recognising and preventing the development of problem behaviours in dogs, and this scheme will help them develop the skills and knowledge to optimise the wellbeing of the dogs in their care.”
Chris Laurence, chair of BVBA, said: “Encouraging welfare-friendly treatment of dogs in veterinary practices is one of our primary objectives so every additional practice means many more dogs will benefit.
“We’re delighted Peak Vets has joined our dog friendly community. By doing so, they are helping ensure every dog has as positive an experience as possible within their clinic.”
At Peak Vets, we deliver veterinary care for your pet seven days a week, with the practice open until 9pm on weekdays. Find out about our opening times and location here.
