Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital has joined as part of the Dog Friendly Clinic Scheme.

The hospital has become part of the founding membership for this initiative, run by Dogs Trust and the British Veterinary Behaviour Association (BVBA). 

Langford Vets is the first referral centre in the South West and University Hospital to be a part of the scheme.

This move comes amid acknowledgement that some dogs can be apprehensive about vet visits, often unwilling to enter clinics and stressed during treatment.

The hospitality bestowed by Dog Friendly Clinic Scheme helps practice teams develop dog behaviour knowledge and skills to address early signs of anxiety while improving the welfare of dogs within the clinic.

Under the scheme, canine experts provide tools for clinic teams to learn more about dog behaviour, including how pain and health conditions can contribute towards behaviour, and how to lessen the impact of vet visits on dogs.

Weston Mercury: The hospital has become part of the founding membership for this initiative, run by Dogs Trust and

Dr Rachel Casey, head of canine behaviour and research at Dogs Trust, said: "Veterinary care is an essential part of dogs’ lives, but some find visits to the vets stressful.

"We are very pleased to collaborate with the BVBA to create the Dog Friendly Clinic Scheme to help veterinary practices embed the principles of behavioural medicine into clinic life."

Mr Chris Laurence, chair of BVBA, said: "Encouraging welfare-friendly treatment of dogs in veterinary practices is one of our primary objectives...We’re delighted that Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital has joined our dog friendly community."

Stephanie Goddard, registered veterinary nurse at Langford Vets said: "Dog anxiety when visiting the vet can be stressful for everyone involved and may even put off owners seeking veterinary help when needed.

"I am excited to have joined this new initiative and showcase the excellent behaviourally underpinned veterinary care to our students – the future vets and nurses of our industry."

For more information, visit www.dogfriendlyclinic.org.uk.