A VETERINARY practice has blamed a global shortage of vets and a boost in pet ownership for why it has to close one of its surgeries.

Alexander Vets has explained why it has cut hours and discontinued clinical treatments in one of its locations.

And it said the global shortage of qualified vets, alongside a 'huge' increase in pet ownership amid the pandemic, was partly to blame.

Alexander Vets recently announced changes to its Ulverston branch, including complete closure for two days every week and limited services.

Clients will be moved to Barrow, though they can still book appointments and collect pre-ordered medications from Ulverston on the days that it remains open.

The vets will attempt to re-open the practice and is continuing its search for new vets.

It will be fully open for barely more than a week longer with the decision to close coming into effect on July 28.

An Alexander Vets spokesman said: "Following the huge increase in pet ownership and a global shortage of qualified veterinary surgeons, the Alexander Vets team has had to take the difficult decision to temporarily close our Ulverston practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 28, with limited services on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

"The limited service means customers will still be able to order and collect pre-ordered medications, buy food and pet shop products, book appointments for Alexander Vets Barrow and seek advice regarding their pets from a member of staff.  

“In case of a clinical emergency, during and outside of normal opening hours, owners should telephone 01229 582900 or 01229 836516 where your call will be answered by a member of the Alexander Vets team or forwarded to the out-of-hours emergency service.

“We are continuing our search for additional vets to join the practice, and aim to reopen the practice normally as soon as we are able.”