Ballinger Equine has moved quickly and decisively to address the challenges arising from the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak. Human and equine health and welfare are our paramount concerns and the practice infrastructure is designed with resilience to ensure continuity of veterinary healthcare provision in circumstances such as the current public health crisis.
Animal welfare, client and veterinary surgeon safety
As reported in our previous post, the practice has already implemented aggressive bio-security measures at its offices and with the ambulatory veterinary surgeons and their trucks and equipment.
Rigorous biosecurity will ensure 24/7 emergency care
Our veterinary surgeons wear a new pair of disposable surgical gloves for each visit. This is in addition to frequent hand sanitising and cleaning of trucks, clothing and equipment. They are instructed to maintain social distancing throughout the day. Whilst we continue to offer a complete and uninterrupted veterinary healthcare and welfare service we will be placing particular focus on emergency care. Veterinary emergency care continues to be available 24/7, 365 under animal welfare guidelines.
Your help is appreciated
Ensuring our veterinary surgeons remain healthy and safe is critical to continuity of service. Therefore we are asking our clients to help in the following ways:
When we arrive at a visit, please practice social distancing. We don’t need to see more than one person who should also be able to handle the horse or pony. If you cannot provide a healthy handler, let us know and we will arrange for one of our own staff to assist.
If you need a visit to your horse or pony but are experiencing symptoms of the virus (new and persistent dry cough, shortness of breath and a high temperature) do not attend the visit, stay indoors where you are self-isolating. 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.
Please practice your own bio-security during a visit. Wash your hands thoroughly immediately before and after. Catch any coughs or sneezes in a tissue or in the crook of your arm and be mindful of our vets’ health. Keep a safe distance away.
When visiting the practice office, please observe the bio-security notices and sanitise your hands before entering. We will only accommodate one visitor in the office at a time.
We’re always happy to offer veterinary guidance and advice
Your health and the wellbeing of those close to you is important to us. The continued health and welfare of your horses and ponies is important to us. As always, should you have the slightest concern about the health or welfare of your horse or pony, don’t hesitate to telephone the office on 01462 414008. The office is open Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) from 0830hrs to 1700hrs.
