Alder Silver Service Recognised With ISFM Award
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A £1.4 million state-of-the art veterinary clinic in Guildford is celebrating after receiving a prestigious award for its quality care for cats.
Alder Veterinary Practice, which recently relocated to a new 5,000 sq ft surgery in Queen Elizabeth Park, has attained a silver award from the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM).
One of Alder’s lead nurses Lindsey Childs-Wright, who focuses on consults, practice manager Louise Brabon and clinical nurse manager Ellenar Gauntlett all played key roles in earning such high-level recognition, which comes just eight months after the practice opening its doors.
Lindsey said: “Moving into the new building in February has made a big difference and helped us provide even better care for our cats.
“We now have a dedicated cat waiting area, cat consult room, cat procedure room and cat ward which have all helped improve the standard of care for our feline patients.
“The separate rooms help to minimise stress due to reduced noise and smell from other patients that may unsettle cats.
“The procedure room, in particular, has been helpful to take blood samples, place intravenous catheters and take blood pressure measurements in a quiet space, away from high footfall areas of the practice.
“The dedicated cat ward is on the opposite side of the building to the dog ward and has kennels with smooth closing doors which run along one wall so patients don't have to see each other.
“We have also added cat castles to provide a range of heights within kennels and places for patients to hide and relax.”
Lindsey and the team will not be resting on their laurels, though. The practice will now work towards achieving the ISFM’s gold award.
The ISFM launched the cat-friendly clinic initiative to encourage veterinary clinics to make changes to improve the welfare of cats in their care.
The programme advises practices on how to make their environment as welcoming as possible for cats, as well as providing support in staff training, handling techniques and cat-specific client care.
For more information about Alder Veterinary Practice, visit www.aldervets.co.uk or search for it on social media.