# Ashwood Vets

> Independent veterinary care in Dundonald and Saintfield, with longer consultations, modern diagnostics and a familiar local team.

Ashwood Vets. This file gives AI agents a curated map of the most important content on the site.

## Key pages

- [Home](https://ashwoodvets.com): Independent veterinary care with 20 minute consultations across Dundonald and Saintfield.
- [About Us](https://ashwoodvets.com/about-us): Independent veterinary practice founded in 2009, serving Dundonald and Saintfield.
- [Ashwood Pet Club](https://ashwoodvets.com/ashwood-pet-club): Affordable preventative healthcare plans for dogs, cats and rabbits at Ashwood Vets.
- [Ashwood Pet Club Terms & Conditions](https://ashwoodvets.com/ashwood-pet-club-terms): The full terms and conditions of Ashwood Pet Club membership, including payments, renewals and cancellation.
- [BSAVA Client Information Medication Leaflets](https://ashwoodvets.com/bsava-client-information-medication-leaflets): Download BSAVA client information leaflets for the medicines we prescribe at Ashwood Vets, listed A to Z and searchable by name.
- [Book Online](https://ashwoodvets.com/book-online): Book an appointment online with Ashwood Vets in Dundonald or Saintfield.
- [Cookie Policy](https://ashwoodvets.com/cookie-policy): Read the Ashwood Vets cookie policy.
- [Cruciate Ligament Repair](https://ashwoodvets.com/cruciate-ligament-repair): Cruciate ligament surgery at Ashwood Vets. Patrick McKee and Niall Thompson have repaired hundreds of cruciate injuries. Call us for a consultation.
- [Data Retention Policy](https://ashwoodvets.com/data-retention-policy): Read the Ashwood Vets data retention policy.
- [Dundonald](https://ashwoodvets.com/dundonald): Visit Ashwood Vets Dundonald at 71 Comber Road for independent veterinary care.
- [Fracture Surgery](https://ashwoodvets.com/fracture-surgery): Fracture repair surgery for dogs and cats at Ashwood Vets, planned carefully by our orthopaedic surgeons Patrick McKee and Niall Thompson.
- [Meet the Team](https://ashwoodvets.com/meet-the-team): Meet the veterinary, nursing and client care teams across both Ashwood Vets clinics.
- [Orthopaedics](https://ashwoodvets.com/orthopaedics): Orthopaedic surgery at Ashwood Vets by Patrick McKee and Niall Thompson: cruciate, patella, fracture repair and osteoarthritis care. Referrals welcome.
- [Osteoarthritis Management](https://ashwoodvets.com/osteoarthritis-management): Osteoarthritis management for dogs and cats at Ashwood Vets: weight control, exercise, supplements, pain relief and laser therapy.
- [Our Services](https://ashwoodvets.com/services): Explore everyday and advanced veterinary services at Ashwood Vets in Dundonald and Saintfield.
- [Patella Surgery](https://ashwoodvets.com/patella-surgery): Luxating patella surgery at Ashwood Vets using the minimally invasive Ridgestop technique. Experienced surgeons and a pain free commitment.
- [Prices](https://ashwoodvets.com/prices): Guide prices for consultations, vaccinations, surgery, dentistry and end-of-life care.
- [Privacy Policy](https://ashwoodvets.com/privacy-policy): Read the Ashwood Vets privacy policy.
- [Register Your Pet](https://ashwoodvets.com/register-your-pet): Contact Ashwood Vets to register your pet at Dundonald or Saintfield.
- [Saintfield](https://ashwoodvets.com/saintfield): Visit Ashwood Vets Saintfield at 29 Belfast Road for independent veterinary care.
- [Terms and Conditions](https://ashwoodvets.com/terms-and-conditions): Read the Ashwood Vets terms and conditions.

## Services

- [Puppy & Kitten Packs](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/puppy-packs): <p></p>
- [VidiVet 24/7](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/vidivet-247): <h2>24/7 Video Vetcare with VidiVet</h2><p>This completely FREE service is paid for by us, and exclusive to registered Ashwood clients. No catches, as simple as that. If there was ever a reason to register your pet with us, this is it. We are currently the only veterinary practice in Northern Ireland to offer this amazing service, free of charge.</p><p>VidiVet gives you access to free digital vet support 24/7. The vet knows you are our client and they are operating on behalf of Ashwood.</p><h2>When VidiVet helps most</h2><ul><li>Unsure if you need to go to the emergency vets?</li><li>Unsure of what to do when we are closed?</li><li>Unsure about a medication?</li></ul><h2>How it works</h2><p>Send VidiVet a message, video or photo via the VidiVet app and receive a personalised video response from our UK-qualified vet team in a matter of moments.</p><h2>Getting your sign-up link</h2><p>To access our VidiVet service for free through the VidiVet app, please contact the clinic to get your Ashwood client sign-up link.</p>
- [Vaccinations & wellness care](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/vaccinations-wellness-care): <h2>Vaccinations</h2><p>Dogs, cats and rabbits all need yearly vaccinations to keep them protected. If your pet's vaccinations have lapsed, we can easily bring them up to date.</p><p>Book online to choose your vet and appointment time, or give us a call and we will find a time that suits you.</p><h2>Puppy and kitten packs</h2><p>Welcome to the family. We cannot wait to meet your new puppy or kitten.</p><p>No matter what your pet has had done elsewhere, we will get them fully up to date and protected. Every pack is tailored to your pet's individual needs.</p><h2>What is included in your tailored puppy or kitten pack?</h2><ul><li>Full veterinary health check</li><li>All core vaccinations, we will pick up where others left off</li><li>Kennel cough vaccination (for puppies)</li><li>Worming, flea and tick treatment</li><li>Microchipping</li><li>4 weeks FREE PetPlan pet insurance</li><li>Discount voucher for neutering</li><li>Discount voucher for next year's boosters</li><li>Plus cuddles and love from the whole team</li></ul><h2>Already started vaccines elsewhere?</h2><p>No problem. We will review what has been done and build the rest of their care plan around it, so your little one gets everything they need, with nothing missed.</p>
- [Pet insurance support](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/pet-insurance-support): <h2>Pet Insurance</h2><p>Good pet insurance is vital for the majority of our clients.</p><h2>Four weeks free insurance for puppies</h2><p>If your dog is under 12 months old we can help you set up 4 weeks FREE insurance with PetPlan.</p><p>PetPlan is the company we choose to work most closely with and their lifetime policies are excellent.</p><h2>We waive our claim-administration fee</h2><p>There are many pet insurance companies and policies out there, however, for our clients with PetPlan pet insurance we waive our claim-administration fee.</p><p>We would love to talk to you about pet insurance. Send us a WhatsApp or ask us at your next visit.</p>
- [Pet food & nutritional advice](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/pet-food-nutritional-advice): <h2>Ashwood Pet Food and Treats</h2><p>Our own range of gently cooked food and treats for dogs and cats, chosen because we feed it to our own pets. Ask our team which recipe suits your pet.</p><h2>Dog food</h2><p><strong>Superfood 65</strong></p><ul><li>Different flavours</li><li>Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source</li><li>Grain free</li><li>5 select superfoods in each recipe</li><li>Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion</li><li>No other guff, just goodness</li></ul><p><strong>Goodness Grains</strong></p><ul><li>Different flavours</li><li>Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source</li><li>Freshly prepared protein and grains, wholesome and gentle on the tummy</li><li>Ground rice, barley and oats to help your pet feel full and satisfied</li><li>Digestible nutrients, essential fatty acids, fibres and vitamins</li><li>Hypoallergenic: there is no wheat, wheat gluten, dairy, egg or soya in this range</li></ul><h2>Cat food</h2><p><strong>Connoisseur Cat</strong></p><ul><li>Irresistible to cats, high quality protein</li><li>Gently cooked to protect the valuable protein source</li><li>Grain free</li><li>Highly digestible and delicious</li><li>Formulated to support urinary tract health</li><li>Pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion</li><li>Reduces hairballs</li></ul><h2>Wellness treats for dogs and cats</h2><ul><li><strong>Dental</strong>: dental-care bites with activated charcoal for white teeth and fresh breath, natural green tea extract to help control bacteria, peppermint for fresh breath, plus added vitamins and minerals.</li><li><strong>Digestive</strong>: supports gastrointestinal cell renewal, contains cellulose for a healthy gut, pro-biotics to stabilise and stimulate gut flora, pre-biotics for healthy digestion and high fibre to support gut movement.</li><li><strong>Calming</strong>: grain free, lavender to encourage relaxation, chamomile for natural calming and pre-biotics for healthy gut and digestion.</li><li><strong>Immune</strong>: contains nucleotides essential for the renewal of cells, omega 3 for cognitive function, beta glucans to aid immune defence and selected protein sources for immune system support.</li><li><strong>Skin and coat</strong>: omega 3 for a glossy and soft coat, grain free, improves skin quality, reduces dandruff and contains zinc and biotin for healthy skin and a shiny coat.</li></ul><h2>80/20 treats for dogs and cats</h2><ul><li><strong>Fish</strong>: 80% freshly prepared salmon, white fish and trout with 20% sweet potato. High levels of natural omega 3 and 6, grain free, and a fun fish-shaped crunchy treat.</li><li><strong>Poultry</strong>: 80% freshly prepared chicken, duck and turkey with 20% sweet potato. High levels of natural omega 3 and 6, grain free, and a fun bone-shaped crunchy treat.</li></ul><p>Both are ideal for training or as a reward, and highly palatable for sheer deliciousness.</p>
- [Neutering](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/neutering): <h2>Why Neutering Matters</h2>
<p>Neutering is one of the most effective ways to protect your pet&#039;s long-term health and wellbeing. It can help prevent certain cancers and infections, reduce unwanted behaviours such as roaming, spraying and aggression, and plays an important role in controlling the unwanted pet population.</p>
<p>Our vets will talk you through the benefits and the right timing for your individual pet, taking into account their breed, age and health.</p>
<h2>What We Can Do</h2>
<p>Our neutering services include:</p>
<ul><li><strong>Bitch Spaying</strong> – Routine surgery to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of mammary and womb disease.</li><li><strong>Dog Castration</strong> – Routine surgery to help prevent unwanted behaviours and reduce the risk of certain cancers.</li><li><strong>Cat Neutering</strong> – Spaying and castration for cats, helping to control the local cat population and reduce roaming.</li><li><strong>Rabbit Neutering</strong> – Recommended for rabbits kept in pairs or groups, and to reduce the risk of certain reproductive diseases.</li></ul>
<p>Ashwood Pet Club members receive a discount on neutering, plus periodic member-only offers.</p>
<h2>What To Expect</h2>
<p>Neutering is usually a day-case procedure. Here&#039;s what to expect:</p>
<ul><li>A pre-operative health check to make sure your pet is fit for surgery</li><li>Admission on the morning of the procedure, with your pet going home the same day</li><li>Pain relief given before, during and after surgery</li><li>A follow-up check with one of our nurses to monitor healing</li></ul>
<p>If you notice any swelling, discharge or discomfort at the surgical site, please contact us.</p>
<h2>Our Approach To Neutering</h2>
<p>All neutering procedures are carried out under general anaesthesia, with your pet closely monitored throughout by our experienced team. We use modern anaesthetic and pain relief protocols to keep your pet as comfortable as possible.</p>
<p>We&#039;ll talk you through aftercare, including rest, feeding and wound care, and give you clear advice on when your pet can return to normal activity.</p>
- [Saying Goodbye](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/saying-goodbye-end-of-life-care): <h2>Saying Goodbye</h2><p>We understand that saying goodbye is one of the hardest decisions you will ever have to make.</p><p>If you think it may be the right time for euthanasia, we will work with you to ensure everything is as peaceful as possible. We can arrange a quiet time at the clinic or a home visit.</p><p>We understand that making decisions about euthanasia can be hard; we are always here to talk through it with you.</p><h2>Pet cremation</h2><p>We offer two options for pet cremation:</p><ul><li><strong>Normal cremation</strong>: ashes are not returned. The crematorium facility is not operated for just one pet alone.</li><li><strong>Private cremation</strong>: your pet's ashes are returned. The crematorium facility is operated solely for your individual pet.</li></ul><p>If you choose a private cremation for your pet, you have a choice of how their ashes are returned. Caskets are included in the price of the private cremation, with oak, mahogany, photo frame and carved wooden options, a tribute box, a sleeping cat, a scatter tube, a scatter cushion or an urn. Keepsakes such as a paw print in clay or a wooden heart are also available at an additional cost.</p><h2>Bereavement support</h2><p>The Blue Cross offer a Bereavement Support Service which includes a free phone line. Many people have found this compassionate service very supportive.</p>
- [Advanced soft tissue & orthopaedic surgery](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/advanced-soft-tissue-orthopaedic-surgery): <h2>Soft Tissue Surgery</h2><p>We perform soft tissue surgery on a daily basis, from neutering surgeries to lumps, wounds and surgical cancer treatment. We also provide advanced soft tissue surgical options.</p><h2>Some of the soft tissue surgeries we offer</h2><ul><li>Neutering</li><li>Hernia repair</li><li>Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) surgery</li><li>Bladder surgery including colposuspension</li><li>Anal gland removal</li><li>Reconstructive surgery</li><li>Abdominal and gastrointestinal surgery</li><li>Colorectal and perineal surgery</li><li>Wound treatment</li><li>Cancer surgery</li><li>Lump removal</li><li>Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA) and Lateral Bulla Osteotomy (LBO)</li></ul><h2><a href="/orthopaedics">Orthopaedics</a></h2><p>The Orthopaedics service at Ashwood is provided by Dr Patrick McKee BSc BVetMed MRCVS and Dr Niall Thompson MVB CertAVP(GSAS) PGCertVPS MRCVS.</p><p>Patrick and Niall have both undergone further studies in Small Animal Surgery, with Niall holding the RCVS Certificate of Advanced Veterinary Practice in Small Animal Surgery. Both have a wealth of experience in the management of orthopaedic cases.</p><h2>Orthopaedic consultations and referrals</h2><p>Cases usually start with a comprehensive consultation with Patrick or Niall. We accept referrals for orthopaedic problems and lameness investigations.</p><ul><li><a href="/cruciate-ligament-repair">Cruciate ligament repair</a></li><li><a href="/patella-surgery">Patella surgery</a></li><li><a href="/fracture-surgery">Fracture surgery</a></li><li><a href="/osteoarthritis-management">Osteoarthritis management</a></li></ul>
- [Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/keyhole-laparoscopic-surgery): <h2>Keyhole Surgery</h2><p>Laparoscopy, or minimally-invasive surgery, is a way to explore the organs of your pet's abdomen using only tiny key-hole incisions. Using these incisions, just a few mm long, we insert a camera and our surgical instruments to perform the surgery.</p><p>Laparoscopy is a less traumatic and painful alternative to traditional surgery. It is also a safer method of surgery because everything that is done is under direct magnified visualization. Organs, such as your pet's ovaries, do not need to be manually handled to allow the surgery to be performed, so there is less trauma to the internal structures of your pet's abdomen.</p><p>One use of Keyhole Surgery which is very popular is a canine ovariectomy or spay (the procedure for neutering a female dog).</p><h2>What are the differences between an open spay and a keyhole spay?</h2><p><strong>Open surgery</strong> involves a single incision made down the midline of the dog's abdomen. The ovaries and uterus are removed. There is a 10 to 14 day recovery period.</p><p><strong>Keyhole surgery</strong> involves two very small incisions with minimal discomfort. The ovaries are removed. There is a 3 day recovery period.</p><h2>What are the advantages of a keyhole spay?</h2><ul><li>Minimal discomfort and quick healing.</li><li>Most dogs return to normal activity 3 days after keyhole surgery.</li><li>Keyhole surgery is fast becoming the standard of care in veterinary practice, just as it is in the human field.</li></ul><h2>Other keyhole procedures</h2><ul><li>Retained abdominal testicle removal</li><li>Liver investigations and biopsies</li></ul>
- [Dentistry](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/dentistry): <h2>Dentistry</h2><p>We perform dental treatment for dogs, cats and rabbits every day. We check our own teeth twice a day whenever we brush, but what about your pet?</p><p>Teeth will naturally build up a layer of plaque over time, eventually leading to bacteria and tartar build-up. As a result, our pets end up with a red gum line (gingivitis), tooth pain and infection, bad breath and a bacterial risk to the heart and liver.</p><h2>Where possible, we want to prevent this happening. So what can we do?</h2><ul><li>Remove tartar, scale and polish the teeth.</li><li>Perform digital dental x-rays to confirm tooth quality.</li><li>Treat and manage any dental disease.</li></ul><h2>Lift that lip, what can you see?</h2><p>Lift your pet's lip and check their teeth. Book an appointment with one of our vets for a free nurse dental check.</p>
- [Laser therapy](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/laser-therapy): <h2>K-Laser Therapy (Class 4)</h2><p>Arthritis, wounds, muscle injuries, bone healing and more.</p><p>We are proud to offer state-of-the-art Class 4 K-Laser therapy, one of the most advanced treatments available in Northern Ireland. This therapy uses high-intensity, near-infrared light to penetrate deep into tissues, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain.</p><h2>How it works</h2><p>The laser emits specific wavelengths of light energy that are absorbed by cells, stimulating cellular repair, increasing blood flow, and reducing inflammation. This helps your pet's body heal faster, naturally and safely.</p><h2>What it can help with</h2><ul><li><strong>Arthritis and chronic joint pain</strong>: helps manage discomfort and improve mobility.</li><li><strong>Muscle injuries and back pain</strong>: accelerates recovery and reduces soreness.</li><li><strong>Wounds and post-surgical healing</strong>: speeds up tissue repair and reduces inflammation.</li><li><strong>Dental healing</strong>: supports faster recovery after gum procedures.</li><li><strong>Inflammatory conditions</strong>: can help control inflammation in conditions such as cystitis and inflammatory bowel disease.</li></ul><h2>Benefits for your pet</h2><ul><li>Reduces pain and discomfort naturally.</li><li>Speeds up healing and recovery time.</li><li>Non-invasive and safe.</li></ul><p>We are one of the few practices in Northern Ireland to offer this advanced therapy, bringing the latest in veterinary care to our patients. Ask our team if Class 4 K-Laser therapy could help your pet feel their best.</p>
- [Advanced medical & diagnostic care](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/advanced-medical-diagnostic-care): <h2>Medical Investigations</h2><p>Medical conditions are managed by our highly qualified team of vets and nurses.</p><h2>State of the art medical equipment in-house</h2><ul><li>Video rhinoscope and laparoscopic (keyhole) equipment</li><li>In-house blood and urinalysis machines</li><li>Microscope for cytological analysis</li><li>Abdominal and cardiac ultrasonography</li><li>Digital x-rays</li><li>Dental x-rays</li><li>Oscillometric blood pressure measurement</li><li>Otoscope and ophthalmoscope</li></ul><h2>Access to specialist advice</h2><p>We also have access to additional specialist advice when needed, so your pet gets the right opinion at the right time.</p>
- [Referral services](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/referral-services): <h2>Referral Services</h2>
<p>At Ashwood Vets, we provide a comprehensive range of veterinary services in-house, including advanced soft tissue surgery, orthopaedic surgery, keyhole surgery, laser therapy, and full diagnostic capabilities. For the vast majority of cases, your pet can receive all the care they need right here in our clinics.</p>
<p>However, there are occasions when a pet may benefit from the expertise of a veterinary specialist in a particular field. In these cases, we are able to refer your pet to trusted specialist centres to ensure they receive the very best care available.</p>
<h2>When Might a Referral Be Needed?</h2>
<p>A referral may be recommended when:</p>
<ul><li>A condition requires highly specialised equipment or expertise not available in general practice.</li><li>Your pet would benefit from the opinion of a recognised specialist in a specific discipline.</li><li>Advanced imaging such as CT or MRI scanning is needed.</li><li>Complex surgical procedures are required that fall outside the scope of primary care.</li></ul>
<p>Our vets will always discuss referral options with you openly and honestly, ensuring you are fully informed and comfortable with the plan for your pet&#039;s care.</p>
<h2>How Referrals Work</h2>
<p>If your vet recommends a referral, the process is straightforward:</p>
<ul><li>Your vet will discuss the reason for referral and answer any questions you have.</li><li>We will arrange the referral appointment on your behalf and provide the specialist with your pet&#039;s full clinical history.</li><li>After the specialist consultation or procedure, your pet&#039;s ongoing care will continue with us at Ashwood.</li></ul>
<p>We also accept referrals from other practices, particularly for orthopaedic problems and lameness investigations.</p>
<h2>Continuity of Care</h2>
<p>At Ashwood, your pet&#039;s wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. If a referral is needed, we work closely with the specialist centre to ensure a seamless experience for you and your pet.</p>
<p>We remain involved in your pet&#039;s care throughout the referral process and are always available to discuss progress, results, and ongoing treatment plans. Your pet will always come back to their Ashwood family for continued support and care.</p>
<h2>Book a Consultation</h2>
<p>If you have concerns about your pet&#039;s condition or would like to discuss whether a referral may be beneficial, please contact us to arrange a consultation.</p>
- [Pet Travel](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/pet-travel): <h2>Why Pet Travel Planning Matters</h2>
<p>Travelling abroad with your pet involves specific health checks, documentation and timings that must be completed correctly to avoid delays or being refused travel. Requirements can vary depending on your destination, so it&#039;s important to plan well in advance.</p>
<p>Our team can help guide you through what&#039;s needed for your pet&#039;s journey.</p>
<h2>What We Can Do</h2>
<p>Our pet travel support includes:</p>
<ul><li><strong>Pre-Travel Health Checks</strong> – A full health assessment to confirm your pet is fit to travel.</li><li><strong>Animal Health Certificates</strong> – Completion of the documentation required for travel to the EU and beyond.</li><li><strong>Vaccinations &amp; Treatments</strong> – Rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment and any other travel-specific requirements.</li><li><strong>Advice on Timings</strong> – Guidance on when to book appointments so all requirements are met before you travel.</li></ul>
<p>Please get in touch with us as early as possible, as some travel requirements need to be completed weeks in advance.</p>
<h2>What To Expect</h2>
<p>Planning ahead makes pet travel much smoother. Here&#039;s what to expect:</p>
<ul><li>An initial consultation to discuss your travel plans and destination requirements</li><li>A schedule of any vaccinations, treatments or tests needed before you travel</li><li>Completion of an Animal Health Certificate close to your travel date</li><li>Clear guidance on what to bring and check on the day of travel</li></ul>
<h2>Our Approach To Pet Travel</h2>
<p>We know that travel requirements can feel complicated, so we aim to make the process as clear and stress-free as possible. Our team will talk you through exactly what your pet needs, when, and help make sure all the paperwork is completed correctly.</p>
<p>If you&#039;re planning a trip abroad with your pet, contact us as early as possible so we can help you plan ahead.</p>
<h2>Book a Consultation</h2>
<p>Planning to travel abroad with your pet? Contact us early to make sure all requirements are met in time.</p>
- [Microchipping](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/microchipping): <h2>Why Microchipping Matters</h2>
<p>A microchip is a small, permanent way to identify your pet if they ever go missing. Unlike a collar and tag, a microchip can&#039;t fall off or be removed, giving you the best chance of being reunited with your pet quickly.</p>
<p>Microchipping is also a legal requirement for dogs in the UK, and it&#039;s recommended for cats and other pets too.</p>
<h2>What We Can Do</h2>
<p>Our microchipping service includes:</p>
<ul><li><strong>Microchip Implantation</strong> – A quick, straightforward procedure carried out by one of our team.</li><li><strong>Registration Support</strong> – Guidance on registering your pet&#039;s microchip and keeping your contact details up to date.</li><li><strong>Details Checks</strong> – We can check an existing microchip is registered correctly and still working.</li></ul>
<p>Microchipping is included in our Ashwood Pet Club.</p>
<h2>What To Expect</h2>
<p>Microchipping is quick and can usually be done during a routine appointment. Here&#039;s what to expect:</p>
<ul><li>The microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted just under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades</li><li>Most pets experience only brief, mild discomfort, similar to a routine injection</li><li>No sedation is usually required</li><li>We&#039;ll help you register the chip with your details straight away</li></ul>
<h2>Our Approach To Microchipping</h2>
<p>Our team take care to make the process as calm and stress-free as possible for your pet. We&#039;ll check the chip is reading correctly straight after implantation, and make sure your contact details are registered so your pet can be identified quickly if they&#039;re ever found.</p>
<p>If you move house or change your phone number, remember to update your microchip details as soon as possible.</p>
<h2>Book a Consultation</h2>
<p>Need your pet microchipped, or want to check an existing chip is registered? Contact us to book an appointment.</p>
- [Dermatology](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/dermatology): <h2>Dermatology</h2><p>We have a wealth of experience in dermatology, with nearly 50% of all our consultations involving your pet's skin, ears or feet.</p><h2>Common signs of a skin issue</h2><ul><li>Itchy skin, feet or ears</li><li>Reddened skin</li><li>Excessive licking</li><li>Sores on the skin</li><li>Recurrent ear infections</li><li>Brown staining of feet or over-licked areas</li><li>Greasy feeling fur or skin</li><li>Bad smell from the skin that bathing does not get rid of</li></ul><p>If your pet has any of these signs, they may have a skin issue. Please do not hesitate to book an appointment to see one of our vets.</p><h2>Our dermatology service involves</h2><ul><li>A thorough assessment of your pet's diet, environment, and what the problem is.</li><li>A comprehensive veterinary examination of your pet.</li><li>Skin scrapings to assess for evidence of external parasites.</li><li>Skin and ear samples for cytological or histological assessment.</li><li>Swabs to send for skin and ear bacterial culture and sensitivity.</li><li>Allergy testing (blood sampling), allowing us to make an allergy vaccination if appropriate.</li></ul><p>If investigation is indicated, this is tailored to your pet, based on their presenting signs and history.</p><h2>Long-term management</h2><p>We have access to gold-standard dermatology therapies that can effectively treat and manage your pet's skin and ear issues for the long-term.</p><p>Each pet is treated as an individual. Our advice on dermatology management is multifactorial, looking at everything from your pet's diet and environment to therapy options.</p>
- [Veterinary Consultation](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/veterinary-consultation): <p>Our standard veterinary consultation is 20 minutes. The consultation fee applies to initial appointments, follow-up appointments and medication reviews. Medication, diagnostic tests, procedures and treatments are charged separately where required.</p>
- [Additional Services & Fees](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/additional-services-fees): <p>Prices are current as of August 2026, include VAT where applicable and are intended as a guide. Medication, diagnostic tests, laboratory fees and additional treatment are not included unless specifically stated.</p><p>Some procedures require an assessment before a final price can be confirmed. Out-of-hours and emergency-provider fees are separate.</p>
- [Nursing Care](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/nursing-care): <h2>Nursing Care</h2><p>Our Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVN) are at the heart of the care your pet receives at Ashwood, and they run their own appointments every day.</p><h2>Every day our Registered Veterinary Nurses see clients and patients for:</h2><ul><li>Blood sampling</li><li>Injections</li><li>Advising on treatment plans</li><li>Clipping nails</li><li>Anal glands</li><li>Dental checks</li><li>Post-operative checks</li><li>Nutrition</li></ul><h2>Book a nurse appointment</h2><p>Nurse appointments are often the quickest way to get your pet seen for routine care. Contact the clinic and our client care team will find you a time.</p>
- [Emergency Cover](https://ashwoodvets.com/service/emergency-cover): <h2>Emergency Cover</h2><p>Call <strong>028 9041 9374</strong> for our emergency line.</p><h2>Outside of our opening hours</h2><p>Use your VidiVet app for free veterinary advice from our team at VidiVet.</p><p>In an emergency, contact either:</p><ul><li>Vets Now, Belfast on 028 9065 1729</li><li>MiNightVet, Lisburn on 028 9268 0680</li></ul><h2>Not sure whether it is an emergency?</h2><p>If you are unsure whether your pet needs to be seen straight away, send a message, photo or video through the VidiVet app and a UK-qualified vet will come back to you in minutes.</p>

## Health plans

- [Basic](https://ashwoodvets.com/health-plan/basic): The Ashwood Pet Club spreads the cost of essential preventative healthcare into affordable monthly payments. It is available for dogs, cats and rabbits...
- [Premium](https://ashwoodvets.com/health-plan/premium): The Ashwood Pet Club spreads the cost of essential preventative healthcare into affordable monthly payments. It is available for dogs, cats and rabbits...
- [Ultimate Health](https://ashwoodvets.com/health-plan/ultimate-health): The Ashwood Pet Club spreads the cost of essential preventative healthcare into affordable monthly payments. It is available for dogs, cats and rabbits...
- [XL Premium](https://ashwoodvets.com/health-plan/xl-premium): The Ashwood Pet Club spreads the cost of essential preventative healthcare into affordable monthly payments. It is available for dogs, cats and rabbits...

## Machine-readable resources

- [Sitemap](https://ashwoodvets.com/sitemap.xml): Full XML sitemap of crawlable URLs.
- [Robots](https://ashwoodvets.com/robots.txt): Crawler policy.
- [Full content](https://ashwoodvets.com/llms-full.txt): Every page and record in a single markdown file.
- [RSS feed](https://ashwoodvets.com/feed): RSS 2.0 syndication feed of the latest published content.
- [Atom feed](https://ashwoodvets.com/feed/atom): Atom 1.0 syndication feed of the latest published content.