Vale Referrals and Vale Vets in Dursley gets £2m revamp

After 18 months, refurbishment work at Vale Referrals and Vale Vets in Stinchcombe has finally been completed.

New facilities include operating theatres, consult rooms and cat-only facilities. 

The hospital - which is owned by global veterinary care provider IVC Evidensia - is open 24/7 and offers appointments, referrals and emergency treatment. 

As a result of the expansion, 10 new jobs have been created.

The revamp features a new lobby and waiting area, cardiology and ultrasound rooms, as well as a dental suite with a new digital X-ray machine.

Meanwhile, the existing kennel area has doubled in size with the addition of nine new walk-in kennels, an isolation ward and secure outdoor runs.

To help reduce stress, a new cat-only area with a dedicated waiting room, consult room, and treatment area has also been created.

Veterinary staff with dogs outside Vale Vets and Referrals (Image: Vale Vets and Referrals)

Pets and their owners are referred to the team at Vale Referrals by their local daytime vet practice when they need treatment, such as ophthalmology for pets with sight issues and dermatology for pets with skin issues. 

Meanwhile, Vale Vets, a first opinion practice, is located on the same premises and help animals that require more specialised care.

Richard Artingstall, clinical director at Vale Referrals, said: “We’ve been working on this expansion for a long time and it’s incredible to see it complete. 

“Our new and improved facilities mean we can give even more pets across the South West the gold standard treatment that they deserve and support our colleagues from neighbouring vet practices with extensive referral services. 

“The feedback from owners so far has been very rewarding to hear.”

The new reception area at Vale Vets (Image: Vale Vets and Referrals)

Laura Escolme, practice director at Vale Vets, said: “After a year and a half of working in challenging conditions, we are incredibly proud of the team here at Vale Vets and Vale Referrals for their hard work. 

“We are absolutely delighted to see everyone making the most of our new facilities.”

The practice treats thousands of animals across the South West, the Midlands and Wales.