Ballinger Equine is continuously reviewing and reinforcing measures to minimise the risk of the spread of COVID-19. Complacency during the current pandemic has the potential for serious, even life-threatening consequences and as summer draws towards autumn and the cooler weather it is more important than ever to be COVID-19 aware.
COVID-19 risk assessment
Since 14 April, visits and treatments by our veterinary surgeons have been subject to risk assessment, the maintenance of strict social distancing and enhanced bio-security. Risk assessments consider the safety of the veterinary surgeon/s, their wider team, clients and members of the public including the movement of people to, from and around the premises where the visit takes place.
Practice office biosecurity
All staff, colleagues, couriers and visitors attending our practice office must sanitise their hands at the dispenser outside the front entrance. We maintain 2 meters social distancing and all non-staff are requested to remain outside the building for deliveries or whilst we prepare prescriptions or supplements for collection.
In exceptional circumstances where a visitor needs to enter the premises, a face covering or mask is mandatory and surfaces are not to be touched.
Home from holiday
Clients who have recently returned from holiday abroad and who are under UK Government imposed self-isolation restrictions are reminded to inform the office of their quarantine when booking a visit. The veterinary surgeon will attend your horse or pony, but you are respectfully requested not to be present at the visit.
During a visit
When one of our veterinary surgeons visits your horse or pony, please observe the following guidance:
- Our veterinary surgeons are instructed not to proceed with a visit if they consider social distancing is not being adhered to or they consider the conditions are unsafe.
- Please practice your own bio-security during a visit. Wash and sanitise your hands thoroughly, and for more than 20 seconds, immediately before and again after our visit.
- Keep at least two metres distance from our vet and be mindful of safeguarding their personal health.
- Do not cough or sneeze anywhere near our vet.
- Stay at least two metres from the Ballinger Equine truck and any veterinary equipment.
- If you need a visit to your horse or pony but are experiencing symptoms of the virus (new, persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, a loss of, or change to your sense of smell or taste, and a high temperature) do not under any circumstances attend the visit, stay indoors where you are self-isolating and remain in contact with the veterinary surgeon via your ‘phone. The same applies if you or anybody you live with is currently, has been, or is suspected to be at risk of infection. Stay self-isolated. The vet will take increased precautions during the visit and will not see you or your contacts.
Remain alert
By following straightforward guidance, wearing face coverings where appropriate, washing hands frequently and avoiding unnecessary contact by maintaining social distancing, we may all help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and stay safe and well.
