Market Vets's home page
Out of hours 01769 572176
South Molton 01769 572 176
Barnstaple 01271 344 262

If you are looking to book a cat vaccination, please be aware that there is an ongoing shortage of some cat vaccines affecting all UK Veterinary practices. Find out more here.

Pet FAQs

Additional information we are frequently asked for in practice

  • How often should my pets be vaccinated?
  • Can my animal have food and water if is having surgery tomorrow?
  • How do I know when my pet needs a dental procedure?
  • How old does my puppy or kitten have to be to have them spayed or neutered?
  • My dog/cat is having puppies/kittens.  How long can they go between delivering puppies/kittens?
  • What are the benefits of having my pet spayed or castrated?
  • When can I pick my pet up following their surgery?

How often should my pets be vaccinated?

Dogs, cats and rabbits should be vaccinated annually and will be given a thorough clinical examination during their visit to ensure they are healthy.  You will also be able to discuss any issues or worries you may have about your pet with a member of our clinical team.  If you have had a vaccination with us you should automatically receive a reminder for the next one normally via text, email or post.  Please contact us if you think you should have received one or any of your details have changed.

Can my animal have food and water if is having surgery tomorrow?

We recommend animals undergoing surgery have their food taken away around 8pm the night before surgery, access to water overnight is allowed, and then removed in the morning before coming to the surgery.

How do I know when my pet needs a dental procedure?

Dental problems can present themselves in many ways - plaque and tartar build-up, bad breath, red and inflamed gums, and loose teeth are all signs that should cause concern.  If you notice any of these signs, please bring your pet in for a dental check-up which is a free service offered by our nursing team.  We can give you recommendations to help maintain your pet’s overall mouth health such as helpful treats/toys, teeth brushing, and other pet safe dental products.

How old does my puppy or kitten have to be to have them spayed or neutered?

Market Vets recommends waiting until your animal is at least 4 months of age to try to avoid any urinary incontinence issues from spaying or neutering them too young.  We can also spay bitches before they have their first heat because doing so greatly reduces their risk of developing mammary tumours in later life.

My dog/cat is having puppies/kittens.  How long can they go between delivering puppies/kittens?

The time between the delivery of puppies and kittens can often be several hours and will vary depending on age, size and breed. Please call us sooner rather then later if you have any questions or concerns about your pet having puppies or kittens.

What are the benefits of having my pet spayed or castrated?

Most obviously spaying or castrating your pet will reduce unwanted litters of puppies or kittens. However there are health benefits too. Spaying can greatly reduce their risk of developing many types of cancer later in life and will also greatly reduce the chances of your pets developing pyometra (an infection in the uterus) which can be a life threatening condition. Castration greatly reduces sexually driven behaviour such as roaming in pursuit of a bitch in season and aggressive 'protective' behaviour, and reduces the chances of any prostate problems. The risk of testicular cancer is also completely removed.

When can I pick my pet up following their surgery?

Usually a patient that is neutered or has relatively minor surgery can go home the day the surgery is performed.  Pets undergoing more major surgery generally spend the night here at our surgery.  In some circumstances, we may keep your pet for a longer period depending on the type of procedure and the severity of the animal’s condition. We will stay in touch with you throughout your pets stay. We will always arrange pick up times at your convenience.

Practice information

Barnstaple

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  • Mon
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Tue
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Wed
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Thu
    8.30am - 6:00pm
  • Fri
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Sat
    8:30am - 5:00pm
  • Sun
    Closed

Emergency Details

Please call:

01271 344 262
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Find us here:

Riverview Commercial Centre Riverside Road Pottington Barnstaple Devon EX31 1QN
get directions with Google Maps
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Please call this number for emergencies:

01271 344 262

South Molton

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  • Mon
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Tue
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Wed
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Thu
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Fri
    8:30am - 6:00pm
  • Sat
    8:30am - 5:00pm
  • Sun
    Closed

Emergency Details

Please call:

01271 344 262
Back

Find us here:

The Surgery Southley Road South Molton Devon EX36 4BL
get directions with Google Maps
Back

Please call this number for emergencies:

01271 344 262