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Consultations

Compassionate care for every consultation

Your pet’s health and well-being are at the heart of everything we do here at Nova Vets. Our vet consultations offer expert care, whether your pet needs a routine check-up, treatment for an illness, or just a bit of advice.

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What happens during a vet consultation?

A vet consultation is your opportunity to discuss any concerns you have about your pet’s health. During the appointment, a member of our vet team will perform a thorough physical examination, checking your pet’s eyes, ears, teeth, skin, heart, lungs, and more. They’ll ask about your pet’s behaviour, diet, medical history, and any symptoms you’ve noticed at home.

If needed, we may recommend further tests, such as blood work or X-rays, or we’ll discuss treatment options. You’ll also have time to ask questions and get advice on anything from nutrition to preventative care. Consultations are designed to catch issues early, offer peace of mind, and keep your pet as healthy and comfortable as possible.

When to book a vet consultation?

You should book a consultation if:

  • Your pet seems unwell, is acting unusually, or has symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, limping, or changes in appetite or behaviour.
  • You notice any lumps, skin issues, or signs of pain.
  • Your pet is due for vaccinations or a routine health check.
  • You have concerns about weight, dental health, mobility, or ageing.
  • You’re welcoming a new pet and need initial advice or health checks.

Even if your pet seems healthy, annual vet consultations are essential for preventative care and early detection of underlying issues.

Types of consultations

Veterinary consultations can vary depending on your pet’s individual needs. Whether your visit is for a routine health check, a specific illness, post-operative care, or behavioural advice, our vets will tailor the consultation to suit your pet’s condition, age, and lifestyle.

Some consultations are scheduled in advance (routine or follow-up), while others may be urgent or same-day appointments when immediate care is needed.

puppy

Routine vet consultations

Routine consultations are a key part of preventative care. These appointments usually involve a full physical exam and allow us to monitor your pet’s ongoing health. They’re also when your pet may receive their vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and dietary or lifestyle advice.

For puppies and kittens, routine checks help track growth and development. For adult and senior pets, these visits can help spot early signs of age-related issues or chronic conditions. Regular vet checks give you peace of mind and help your pet live a longer, healthier life as well as helping to familiarise your pet with the practice environment, reducing any anxiety around vet visits.

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cat in blanket

Unwell pet consultations

If your pet seems unwell—whether due to sudden symptoms or gradual changes in behaviour or health—a vet consultation is the first step to finding out what’s wrong and how to help. Don’t hesitate to call us; early assessment can make a big difference.

During the consultation, the vet will ask about any changes you’ve noticed, then perform a full physical exam to check for signs of illness. If needed, they may suggest diagnostic tests like blood work, x-rays, or ultrasound. Once there’s a diagnosis or working theory, they’ll explain the treatment plan, which may include medication, further testing, supportive care, or referral to a specialist.

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Answers to our vet consultation FAQs

Whether you’re visiting us for the first time or bringing in a long-time furry friend, we know you might have questions about what to expect during a vet consultation. From how long appointments take to what to bring on the day, we’ve answered some of the most common queries to help you feel fully prepared.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for below, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—our team is always happy to help.

How much does a vet consultation cost at Nova Vets?

At Nova Vets we’re committed to keeping our prices reasonable, fair and accessible. View our pricing page.

How long is a vet consultation?

Most of our vet consultations last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the reason for the visit. Routine check-ups may be quicker, while more complex issues, like illness or behavioural concerns, can take a little longer. If your pet needs tests or treatment, additional time may be required. Our vets will always take the time to ensure your questions are answered and your pet receives thorough care.

Do I need to book an appointment, or can I just walk in?

For routine or non-urgent appointments, we ask clients to book an appointment to allow us to allocate enough time to address any concerns you may have. You can do this by calling our team on 01952446456 or you can book online by clicking here.

In the event of an emergency, it is always best to call in advance so that we can set up and prepare for your arrival.

What should I bring to the appointment?

To help us provide the best care for your pet, please bring:

  • A list of current medications or supplements your pet is taking
  • Any samples that have been requested by our team – ie. stool or urine samples
  • Photos or videos of symptoms, such as limping or unusual behaviour
  • Your pet insurance details, if applicable

This information helps us build a complete picture of your pet’s health. If you have recently registered with us, we also ask that you bring any previous medical records, including vaccination history, so that we can add them to our own records.

How to prepare a pet for a visit to the vets?

While we try to maintain a calm environment throughout the practice, visits to the vets can be stressful for some pets. But, a little preparation can help:

  • Use a secure carrier or lead to keep your pet safe during travel and secure in the waiting room
  • Familiarise your pet with their carrier in advance—make it a positive space with treats and toys
  • Avoid feeding large meals right before the appointment (unless advised otherwise)
  • Bring a comfort item, like a favourite blanket or toy
  • Stay calm yourself—your pet can pick up on your mood

If your pet is particularly anxious, it’s always best to speak to our team beforehand—they may suggest calming techniques or products to ease any anxiety during the visit.

Can I be in the room during the vet consultation?

Yes—we actively encourage pet owners to stay with their pet during the consultation. Having you nearby can help to comfort your pet, and it allows you to discuss your concerns directly with the vet. In some cases (e.g. certain procedures or x-rays), we may briefly need to take your pet to another area, but we’ll always explain why and keep you updated throughout the visit.

Will my pet get treatment during the consultation, or is it just an exam?

This all depends on what your pet needs. In many cases, your pet can receive treatment during the consultation, such as vaccinations, medication, or minor procedures like ear cleaning or nail trimming. If your pet needs diagnostic tests or more involved treatment, the vet may discuss options for same-day care or schedule a follow-up visit. The goal is always to begin care as soon as possible to help your pet feel better.

Book your vet consultation at Nova Vets

Booking a consultation at Nova Vets is quick and easy—just give us a call on 01952 446456 or use our online booking system . If you’re unsure whether your pet needs to be seen, our friendly team is happy to advise.

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