From time to time we come across conditions or illnesses that need specialist attention. In these cases we may sometimes arrange for your pet to a visit a referral centre that deals with advanced techniques. One such patient is "Bess" a 4 &1/2 year old Korthals Griffon who has recently undergone surgery for her heart condition.

Bess was diagnosed with a heart murmur which on further investigation turned out to be a PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus)

Many pets will explore the world via their mouth and nose, sniffing and tasting their way around their world.  While they do this they are innocently ingesting the toxins left behind by third hand smoke.

Most pet owners now know that chocolate can be toxic to dogs, causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, abnormal heart rhythms and occasionally death but there are many other “toxic treats” lurking at home.

Over-eating fruit can be a cause of stomach upset but there are some fruits that have a more sinister side to them. Apple, apricot, cherry and peach seeds or stones contain cyanide and can have varying toxic effects on pets. Peach stones are also large enough to cause an obstruction in the small intestines requiring an operation to remove them.

Cats are known as solitary survivors yet a recent survey found that 44% of cat owning households had more than one cat.

Cats in general prefer not to fight.  Instead they use visual and audible communication to avoid physical confrontations and adapt to living in a group through the development of social structures.

We are one of a limited number of vets offering keyhole surgery in the South West.

This type of surgery offers a minimally invasive technique for spaying bitches and for collecting samples from internal organs.  It can also be used to locate undescended testicles.

It greatly reduces post operative discomfort and a quicker return to exercise.  It is extremely popular with both our own clients and those from the surrounding area

We've had great feedback regarding this method of surgery, here's a few words from a client.

THERE are exciting times ahead at St Boniface Vets, Crediton as they welcome back Emma from maternity leave and introduce two new vets to the St Boniface Vets Small Animal team.

Emily graduated in 2009 from the University of Bristol.

Her main interests are all things small animal, with a particular focus on canine and feline surgery.

Nutrition plays a vital part in the growth and development of our dogs and cats; from puppies and kittens, all the way through to adult life and into their senior years. 

Furthermore, diets can be tailored to certain medical conditions in order to support medical treatments and sometimes even minimise their use. 

Our pets are part of our family, so taking them on days out, or even on holiday with us, comes naturally. Yet, at times, the reality is very different.

In order to make the whole experience stress free for you and your pet, we have put together some top tips for travelling. 

Planning ahead can take the hassle away, so here are some great ideas for a more comfortable journey and one that you will want to take again!

Before your Trip