During these unprecedented times with many of us having to stay at home, pet owners will have concerns and questions about whether you can still take your animals to see a vet.

Like many other essential services, veterinary practices across the country have been affected by Coronavirus, with many now having to prioritise emergency cases.

PDSA Vet Nurse Joanne Wright said: “Every vet and vet nurse cares about animal welfare and during this time of crisis we also need to protect other people as well. The last thing we want to do is put our staff and pet owners needlessly at risk by asking them to come to their local practice for non-urgent treatment.

“PDSA and other veterinary practices continue to follow all official guidelines from the Government and British Veterinary Association to ensure we are helping to contain and minimise the impact of the virus wherever possible.

“It means that all veterinary practices must limit their focus to providing emergency care and fulfilling urgent prescriptions.

“If you’re worried about your pet and you think they may need to see a vet, please call your local practice first. They will be able to offer advice and look at the best way to help you and your pet.”

Many veterinary practices offer online or telephone consultations, meaning pets can still get the best possible advice from veterinary staff. They can then help you determine whether it’s an emergency that requires a visit to your local practice.

Joanne adds: “Many people will be concerned about their pets’ prescriptions during this time. If you are self-isolating or showing symptoms, please don’t put others at risk. A lot of veterinary practices have put measures in place which means prescriptions can be sent to your home in the post.”

Joanne concludes: “Certain things all pet owners should have on hand during self-isolation include pet food, flea treatments, cat litter and disposable waste bags.