North Downs Specialist Referrals Giving Cats The Gold Star Treatment
6 years ago 
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North Downs Specialist Referrals has been recognised as a gold level cat clinic by the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM).
The recognition comes as North Downs, which is part of the Linnaeus Group, celebrates the opening of a brand new £2.5 million extension at its animal hospital in Bletchingley, near Redhill, further enhancing its reputation for first-class care and treatment.
North Downs hospital director Terry Emmerson said: “This is a ringing endorsement of our work here at North Downs, as to attain gold award status you must offer an exceptional care package for cats.
“First and foremost, all staff must all be trained in feline-friendly care to ensure our cats receive the best possible experience from the moment they come through the door to the time they go home.
“The facilities and level of equipment must be first class, too, and fully focused on feline care and treatment.
“There needs to be a separate waiting area, separate hospital wards and separate kennels for cats, which are positioned well away from dogs and other animals to create a stress-free environment.”
North Downs’ internal medicine specialist Victoria Smith will play a key role in the new cat clinic, supported by certified feline nurses, Helen Wright and Kira McLean-Ash, with all three now recognised as cat advocates.
Mr Emmerson added: “Victoria has a particular interest in treating cats and undertook additional examinations to obtain the title of Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Feline Medicine.
“Helen and Kira have completed the ISFM certificate in feline care and are set to start studying for their diplomas.
“Going forward, all new clinical staff will undergo an induction programme in cat friendly care.”
It’s not just cool for cats, though, with Mr Emmerson revealing it also helps the North Downs staff.
He said: “If a cat is relaxed and at ease then it is easier to examine and treat without the risk of being scratched or bitten. So a happy cat also means a happy vet and nurse.”
For more information about North Downs Specialist Referrals, which is part of the UK-wide Linnaeus Group, visit www.ndsr.co.uk.
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