Two specialist clinics within the IVC Evidensia referral network have achieved RCVS hospital status, representing their dedication to providing the highest standards of veterinary care to pets and animals. 

Pool House Equine Hospital in Lichfield and Great Western Exotics in Swindon have both recently been awarded the certification in recognition of their ability to investigate and treat complex veterinary cases as well as providing 24/7 emergency critical care. Other criteria to achieve hospital status includes having a range of specialist diagnostic equipment on site and a rigorous examination of premises and facilities to make sure they meet the RCVS’ exacting standards. 

A recent refurbishment at Great Western Exotics has seen the hospital which accepts both referrals and first opinion cases, become one of the only 24hr exotic vets in the UK, with an exotic-only team led by avian specialist Tom Dutton. This allows any complications or emergency cases in exotic animals to be seen by a specialist vet, receiving a higher level of species-specific emergency care and support. 

The renovation also saw the hospital bring in a new animal-grade CT scanner and upgrade its operating theatre. New kennels were installed which allow for individually controlled heat and air flow and for the practice team to oxygenate or nebulise a patient within them. 

Tom Dutton, lead vet at Great Western Exotics, said: “Officially becoming a hospital is a rewarding recognition of the hard work our team has put in to get here, as well as the recent refurbishment of our facilities at Great Western Exotics. As one of the UK’s leading exotics-only vet hospitals, we can now provide an even higher standard of care for pet owners and our colleagues across the south west of England.” 

With a specialist team of 30 and an ambulatory service, Pool House Equine Hospital offers horses a comprehensive list of referral services, including emergency colic treatment, MRI scans, orthopaedic surgery, equine dentistry and a 24/7 emergency critical care.

Richard Stephenson, managing clinical director at Pool house Equine Hospital, said: “We put horses first in everything we do at Pool House and gaining hospital accreditation only cements our reputation as one of the most dedicated facilities in the midlands, with an unrivalled team of hard-working equine specialists ready to support patients and their owners in the best way we can.” 

Both Great Western Exotics and Pool House Equine Hospital are open for referrals from surrounding first opinion practices.

For more information visit www.gwexotics.com and www.poolhouseequine.co.uk.