Barnstaple animal clinic is roaring success

Volunteers at the new North Devon Animal Ambulance welfare clinic in Barnstaple: Rebecca Rider, manager Jane McPhee, vet Marina Morante of Market Vets, vet Heather Hammond and Mrs Brett.

Tony Gussin Wednesday, March 13, 2013
11:00 AM

Following the donation of its former premises and staff time, Market Vets at Pottington has helped North Devon Animal Ambulance set up a new welfare clinic.

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A new North Devon Animal Ambulance weekly animal welfare clinic in Barnstaple has been made possible by the gift of an entire building.

The Gazette revealed in November how Market Vets at River View Commercial Centre on Pottington had invited the charity to take over the premises they once shared, giving it more space, a waiting room, wards and consulting rooms.

Not only that, but it has provided the services of vet Marina Morante free of charge for one day a week, enabling the charity to run Friday clinics with free consultation and treatment.

Diana Lewis of the NDAA said the centre is being run by some high calibre volunteers who came forward after seeing the Gazette story.

Among them is retired vet Heather Hammond, who has also volunteered a day of her time, together with Jane McPhee, who managed the former RSPCA clinic in Barnstaple.

“There are a large proportion of people, such as pensioners or those on a basic wage, who are even worse off than those on benefits,” said Mrs Lewis.

“There’s an increasing desperate need for these people to have somewhere to take their animals. The clinic is open every Friday from 10am-4pm and people can just come along, there is no need to make an appointment.”

Market Vets managing director Alan Jaques said this was not simply a Market Vets project: “Already Mrs Hammond has volunteered and if any other local vets or practices want to get involved they are welcome to do so,” he said.

“We view contributing towards the clinic as part of our social responsibility and in a small way to the excellent work undertaken by the NDAA.”

Anyone who wishes to volunteer or find out more about the clinic can call Mrs Lewis on 01598 740603 or 07817 995751.