Southill Vets Ltd

01/12/2025

🐩 Be seen and stay safe on winter walks! With the evenings drawing in, visibility is key for keeping both you and your dog safe on your adventures. A few simple extras can make a big difference:

🚶 Reflective leads, collars, or harnesses
💡 LED lights or glow tags
🧥 Bright, high-vis clothing for you and your pet

Stay safe and enjoy those chilly evening strolls! ❄

28/11/2025

🖤This Black Friday, we’d love to hear about the best thing you’ve bought or made for your pet that might help other pet owners out. We’re thankful to have such a great community at Southill Vets so let’s share ways to save money on everyday items or treat your pet to something special, without breaking the bank.

28/11/2025

🚫 R O A D. C L O S U R E 🚫

Today is the Wincanton Christmas lights switch on and Christmas Market 🌲 🎁

🛑 The High Street and other connecting roads will be closed between 2-9pm.

If you need to get to our Wincanton surgery you can get to us via Common Road or up through Southgate Drive 🚗

26/11/2025

Elderly stray tabby cat found in Stour Meadows near the sewage works in Gillingham.
Sadly no luck getting hold of his owner through the details registered on the microchip 🥺

He is currently being looked after at our Wincanton surgery. If you know who he belongs to please call us on 01963 33226

25/11/2025

🐾 Protecting Our Pets and Their Future! 🌍

It's World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week (18-24 November 2025), and the message is clear: Act Now. Protect Our Present. Secure Our Future.
🦠Antibiotics are vital for treating serious bacterial infections in both humans and animals. However, their overuse and misuse mean they are becoming less effective, a serious global health threat known as antimicrobial resistance.
At Southill Vets we're committed to using antibiotics responsibly as part of the "One Health" approach, which recognises the link between human, animal, and environmental health. 💚

How you can help us fight AMR:

💊Follow your vet's instructions: Always complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed for your pet, even if they seem better.
💊Never save antibiotics: Unused medicines should never be stored for later use or shared with other pets.
💊Dispose of medicines safely: Return any unused or expired pet medicines to our practice (or a local pharmacy) for safe disposal. Do not throw them in the bin or flush them down the toilet.
💊Prevent infections: Good hygiene, regular handwashing, and ensuring your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations are key steps in preventing infections in the first place. Don't let your pet lick their wounds or get mucky after surgery!

🦠Every action counts in the fight against AMR!
Choose to be an Antibiotic Guardian and make a pledge today to use antibiotics wisely. 💚

24/11/2025

🐕As your male dog reaches adulthood, you may want to consider our neutering service.

Castration is a routine procedure with several benefits:
☑ Prevents testicular cancer and reduces some prostate problems
☑ Can help with behaviours like roaming, marking and mounting
☑ Prevents unwanted litters

The best age can vary depending on your dog’s breed, size and individual needs. Whether to castrate your dog or not is an individual decision and we’re here to help you decide on the right option for you and your dog. Speak to one of our friendly vets or nurses for free advice on Wincanton 01963 33226 or Gillingham 01747 835333. 👩‍⚕

24/11/2025

❄️🐾 As the temperatures drop, older pets can struggle more with slippery surfaces and even a small fall on the ice can lead to serious injury. Our latest article provides practical tips for caring for senior dogs and cats during cold, frosty weather, from choosing non-slip booties to making sure their resting areas are warm and safe.

📖 Read the full article here ➡️ https://www.southillvets.co.uk/article/senior-pet-mobility-preventing-slips-and-falls-on-ice/

If you’re concerned about your pet’s balance or mobility, call us to discuss tailored support and advice.

In this article our vets in Wincanton suggest ways to safely exercise senior dogs in winter and avoid accidents.

18/11/2025

🐰 New to rabbit parenting? Here's how to pick up your bunny safely!

Rabbits have delicate spines and can be easily startled. To lift your rabbit gently:

1. Kneel down to your rabbit’s level to avoid sudden movements.
2. Place one hand under their chest, just behind the front legs.
3. Support their back end with your other hand, keeping their legs tucked close.
4. Hold them securely against your chest, ensuring all four feet are supported.

Always supervise children when handling rabbits and never pick them up by the ears or scruff. Need more tips on rabbit care? Book an appointment with us on Wincanton 01963 33226 & Gillingham 01747 835333 🤳

18/11/2025

‼️Please note‼️
We will be closed in Gillingham this Thursday due to a planned power cut in the area.
If your pet is poorly please go to our Wincanton surgery - 01963 33226 📞

17/11/2025

🩺🐾 In today's news article, our vet Bob O’Brien explains how diabetes can affect dogs, cats and even rabbits - and what we can do to reduce the risk.

Learn more about:
- Key risk factors (weight, diet, breed)
- Simple lifestyle changes to protect your pet
- Why regular check-ups are vital for early detection

📖 Read the full article here ➡️ https://www.southillvets.co.uk/article/vet-bob-obrien-on-preventing-diabetes-in-dogs-cats-rabbits/

If you’re concerned about your pet’s risk or want advice tailored to their needs, get in touch — we’re here to help.

Read our article on the common causes of diabetes in pets and lifestyle factors that may help reduce the risk.

11/11/2025

🎉🐾 As the chill sets in, our younger furry companions need extra care to stay cosy and healthy. Whether you’re looking after a puppy, kitten, rabbit or small mammal, our latest blog outlines how to prepare a comfy, safe space - from choosing the right bedding to avoiding draughts and managing temperature changes.

📖 Read the full article here ➡️ https://www.southillvets.co.uk/article/create-a-warm-environment-for-young-pets-with-southill-vets/

Let’s make sure those little ones thrive all season long!

Very young animals need extra warmth in Winter. Here’s our tips on keeping them snuggly and safe.

10/11/2025

😺Wondering why your cat headbutts you? If your cat ever gives you a gentle “clunk,” it’s not an accident. That head-bump, or ‘head bunt’, is one of the sweetest ways cats communicate.

Here’s what it can mean:

- Cats have scent glands in their cheeks, chin, and forehead. They’re marking you with their scent which is a sign of familiarity and trust.
- It can signal that they feel calm, content, and safe around you.
- Sometimes it’s their way of asking for attention or interaction.

Next time your cat headbonks you, consider it a compliment as one of their highest signs of trust and affection.❤