Chessington Veterinary Surgery

10/11/2026

💚 Happy Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) Month! 💚

This month, we’re celebrating the incredible people who make such a difference to our patients, clients and the wider veterinary team – our Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs)!

VCAs are such a valuable part of veterinary practice, and their contribution often goes far beyond what people see. From providing hands-on care and comfort to our hospitalised patients, assisting with consultations and procedures, preparing equipment, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and offering reassurance to worried pets and their owners, they are involved in so many aspects of daily life in the practice.

They are often the extra pair of hands, the comforting voice, the gentle touch and the familiar face that helps make a stressful experience a little easier for our patients.

Their compassion, dedication, hard work and willingness to help wherever needed make an enormous difference. They play a vital role in supporting our vets and nurses and ensuring our patients receive the very best care.

So, this VCA Month, we want to say a huge THANK YOU to our wonderful VCAs. Your hard work never goes unnoticed, and we are incredibly lucky to have you as part of our team. 💚

Veterinary practice simply wouldn't be the same without you! 🐾

06/11/2026

05/11/2026

❤️ Meet Hercules – a little fighter with a big story! 🐾

We'd love to share Hercules' story and highlight the importance of regular veterinary health checks, especially in young puppies and kittens.

Hercules was diagnosed with PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) when he was a very young kitten. PDA is a congenital heart condition, meaning it is present from birth. It occurs when a blood vessel that should naturally close shortly after birth remains open, causing abnormal blood flow through the heart.

Hercules was hand-reared by one of our wonderful veterinary nurses, who gave him all the love and care he needed from those very early days. ❤️

Following his diagnosis, Hercules was referred for specialist heart surgery at just 5 months old to correct the condition.

Fast forward to today, and Hercules is now 6 years old and doing really well! 🥰 What a fantastic outcome for this special boy!

🌟 Why are early veterinary checks so important?

Congenital conditions aren't always obvious, and some puppies and kittens may appear perfectly healthy despite having an underlying problem.

Routine veterinary examinations allow us to:
🐾 Listen carefully to your pet's heart and lungs.
🐾 Detect heart murmurs or unusual sounds.
🐾 Identify potential congenital abnormalities.
🐾 Arrange further investigations and specialist referrals when needed.

❤️ Early detection can make all the difference!

Some congenital conditions, including PDA, can be successfully treated, particularly when identified early. Depending on the condition, treatment may involve medication, surgery or specialist intervention.

Hercules is a wonderful example of how early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and lots of love can give our little patients the chance of a long and happy life.

Don't underestimate the importance of those early puppy and kitten health checks – they really can make a lifetime of difference!

Sending lots of love to Hercules! ❤️🐱

04/11/2026

💙 November is Diabetes Awareness Month! 🐾

Did you know that diabetes can affect our four-legged friends too? Both dogs and cats can develop diabetes, but with the right care and treatment, they can still enjoy happy, comfortable and fulfilling lives. 🐶🐱

🐾 What are the signs of diabetes in pets?

Some common symptoms to look out for include:

Drinking more than usual

Passing urine more frequently

Increased appetite

Unexplained weight loss

Lethargy or a lack of energy

💉 How is diabetes treated?

The good news is that diabetes can be managed successfully in most pets with the right treatment and a consistent routine.

Treatment usually involves:

💉 Insulin injections – Most diabetic pets require insulin twice daily, although this can vary depending on the individual.

🥣 Dietary management – A consistent, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important parts of managing diabetes.

🩺 Regular monitoring – Blood glucose checks and regular veterinary visits help us ensure treatment is working effectively and allow us to adjust insulin doses when needed.

🏡 A consistent routine – Regular mealtimes, exercise and insulin administration help keep blood glucose levels stable.

🌟 Meet Forrest! 🌟

We'd love to share Forrest's story this Diabetes Awareness Month. Forrest has been diabetic for several years and has been managed really well with treatment and ongoing care.

We've included two photos of Forrest – one taken before he started treatment and one after starting treatment. The difference is a wonderful example of the positive impact that diagnosis and appropriate treatment can have on a pet's quality of life.

Forrest is proof that a diabetes diagnosis doesn't have to stop your pet from enjoying a happy, comfortable life! 💙

❤️ Worried your pet might be diabetic?

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, please don't wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a huge difference.

Our team is always happy to help if you have any concerns or questions about your pet's health.

Let's spread awareness and help more pets live their best lives, even with diabetes! 🐾

02/11/2026

🐾💚 A LITTLE CHECK-UP CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE! 💚🐾

When was the last time your pet had a proper nose-to-tail health check? 🐶🐱

It's easy to assume everything is fine when our pets are eating, playing and behaving normally, but animals are experts at hiding signs of pain and illness!

From dental disease and weight changes to heart murmurs and those little lumps and bumps, regular health checks can help us spot potential problems early.

🔎 Things to keep an eye on at home:
🐾 Changes in appetite or thirst
🐾 Unexplained weight loss or gain
🐾 Bad breath or difficulty eating
🐾 New lumps and bumps, or changes to existing ones
🐾 Changes in behaviour or activity levels

💚 Did you know? Our fantastic VIP Healthcare Plan includes a health check with a vet every 6 months! 🩺🐾

These regular check-ups are a great opportunity to monitor your pet's health, discuss any concerns and help keep them feeling their best throughout the year.

Want to find out more about our VIP Healthcare Plan? Speak to a member of our team — we'd love to tell you about it!

🐶🐱 Because they're family, and their health matters.

30/10/2026

A stray cat has been handed in to us today

Found Ripon Gardens, 6-7 months old female. No chip or collar

Please contact us if you know anything about this Cat or it is yours

Thank you !

29/10/2026

🚨🐶 GDV: A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY EVERY LARGE DOG OWNER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT 🐶🚨

Did you know that large and giant-breed dogs are at greater risk of developing a condition called Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat?

GDV occurs when the stomach fills with gas and distends, then twists on itself. This can rapidly compromise blood circulation and lead to shock. Without urgent veterinary treatment, it can be fatal.

🐾 Which dogs are at greater risk?

Although GDV can affect any dog, it is more common in large and giant breeds, particularly deep-chested dogs such as:
🐕 German Shepherds
🐕 Great Danes
🐕 Dobermans
🐕 Weimaraners
🐕 Standard Poodles

⚠️ Know the warning signs!

Signs can develop very quickly and include:
🔸 Repeated attempts to vomit, but little or nothing comes up
🔸 A swollen, tight or painful abdomen
🔸 Restlessness, pacing or being unable to settle
🔸 Excessive drooling
🔸 Panting or difficulty breathing
🔸 Weakness, pale gums or collapse

🚨 If you suspect GDV, contact an emergency veterinary practice immediately. Do not wait to see if your dog improves. This is a time-critical emergency.

💚 Can you reduce the risk?

While GDV cannot always be prevented, some sensible steps include:

✅ Feed two or more smaller meals rather than one large meal.
✅ Avoid vigorous exercise immediately before and after meals.
✅ If your dog eats very quickly, consider a suitable slow-feeder bowl.
✅ Discuss your dog's individual risk with your vet, particularly if they are a large, deep-chested breed or have a family history of GDV.

🩺 What about preventative gastropexy?

For dogs at increased risk, a preventative gastropexy may be worth discussing with your vet. This surgical procedure attaches the stomach to the abdominal wall to reduce the risk of it twisting. It does not prevent the stomach from becoming bloated, but it significantly reduces the risk of the life-threatening twisting associated with GDV.

🐾 Share this post to help other dog owners recognise the signs. Knowing what to look for could save a life!

28/10/2026

🐾💚 Meet the stunning Moby! 💚🐾

Just look at this gorgeous Norwegian Forest Cat! 😻

Moby came to see us as he’s been suffering with ongoing nasal discharge and a snotty nose. As this has been a chronic problem for him, he was admitted to our team so we could flush his nasal passages and collect samples to send to the laboratory.

🔬 The samples will hopefully help us identify what’s causing Moby’s symptoms and, most importantly, guide us towards the best treatment to help him feel more comfortable.

We’ll be keeping our fingers and paws crossed for some answers for this handsome boy! 🐱💚

26/10/2026

🐹💚 **It’s Guinea Pig Awareness Week!** 💚🐹

Guinea pigs make wonderful companions, but did you know they have some very specific care needs? This week, we’re celebrating these adorable little characters and sharing some tips to help keep them happy and healthy! 🐾

🥬 **Vitamin C is essential!** Guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C, so they need a suitable diet that provides enough of this important vitamin.

🌾 **Hay, hay and more hay!** Good-quality grass hay should make up the majority of their diet. It helps keep their digestive system healthy and their continuously growing teeth worn down.

🐹 **Company matters!** Guinea pigs are social animals and generally benefit from living with a compatible guinea pig companion.

🏡 **Room to roam!** They need plenty of space to run, explore, exercise and hide, with safe places where they can feel secure.

🩺 **Little signs can mean a lot!** Guinea pigs are good at hiding signs of illness. Changes in appetite, weight, droppings or behaviour should never be ignored. If your guinea pig stops eating, contact your vet urgently.

⚖️ **Our top tip:** Weigh your guinea pigs regularly at home. Even small changes in weight can be an early sign that something isn't quite right.

📚 **Want to learn more?** 💚

Woodgreen Pets Charity offers a **free online guinea pig care course** to help owners learn more about their piggies' needs, including diet, housing, companionship, handling and healthcare.

👉 https://woodgreen.org.uk/courses/an-introduction-to-guinea-pigs-online-course/

It's a great way to build your knowledge and make sure your little companions get the care they deserve! 🐾

💬 **Do you have guinea pigs at home?** Share their names or a photo of your little ones in the comments – we'd love to see them! 📸🐹

23/10/2026

🌧️🐾 **Storm Austin is on its way – let’s keep our pets safe!** 🐾🌧️

With Storm Austin expected to bring unsettled weather, strong winds and heavy rain, here are a few simple ways to keep your four-legged family members safe and comfortable. 💚

🐶 **Keep dogs on leads** – strong gusts, flying debris and sudden noises can be frightening, even for normally confident dogs. Keep walks short and stick to familiar routes.

🐱 **Keep cats indoors if possible** – provide a warm, safe place for them to hide away from the wind and rain.

🏡 **Secure your garden** – check fences, gates and sheds, and bring loose garden furniture, toys and other items inside.

🌳 **Watch out for hazards** – avoid walking beneath trees or near loose branches, and steer clear of flooded paths and standing water.

🛏️ **Create a safe space** – if your pet is worried by the wind and noise, make them a cosy, quiet area indoors with their favourite bed and toys.

🪪 **Check microchip details** – if your pet gets frightened and escapes, up-to-date contact details will help you be reunited.

🐰 **Don't forget smaller pets** – rabbits and guinea pigs housed outdoors may need extra protection from wind and rain. Make sure their accommodation is secure, dry and sheltered, and move them somewhere safe if conditions become severe.

❤️ Most importantly, keep an eye on your pets and follow local weather warnings. A little preparation can make a big difference.

Stay safe, everyone, and give your furry friends an extra cuddle from us! 🐾💚

Vetcare