Pet’s corner – your questions answered

Dr Victoria Vidal, head vet at Heronden independent veterinary practice in Tenterden, answers all your pet-related pondering. This month it’s all about health care plans!

Heronden vet Dr Victoria Vidal with dog

Heard of Heronden Vets? We love this family-run, independent veterinary practice in Tenterden, where the service is all about providing excellent care to each individual pet – however big or small. We received a number of questions about Healthcare Plans, so we asked Dr Victoria Vidal, head vet and owner to answer all your pet-related ponderings here…

Q: We are new to the pet-owning world. Can you explain the concept of a Healthcare plan – is it like insurance for your dog or cat?

It’s not the same as insurance, no – and that is definitely something you should consider investing in too. A pet health plan is basically a subscription service for your pet covering routine healthcare and they vary massively from veterinary practice to practice. Common features are that you pay in monthly instalments, or a single annual payment, your pet receives their routine annual vaccines, flea and worming treatments, nail clips, health-checks and more at a discount or for free.

Many may offer discounts on medication or surgical procedures for your pet too. Some even offer free appointments to see your vet, meaning you only have to pay for medication. Most practices offer them for dogs and cats, and some even for other animals like rabbits. 

The best comparison is using the gym as a pay as you go customer and paying every visit, versus getting a membership that includes all visits for free and often includes bonuses too. Remember that every health plan differs, so please speak to your local vet about what they offer and if it is suitable for your pet.

Q: We are beyond excited to pick up our first family pet next week – a brown, boy Labrador puppy! What do we need to think about in terms of vets and his health?

When you have your puppy, make an appointment for a check-up with the vet as soon as possible. They can talk you through everything like those important first vaccinations. A good vet will have a good Healthcare Plan that you can take up should you wish. They will vary in what they offer and cost.

For example our Life Long Healthcare Plans start from £45 per month and include everything from six free consultations a year, to 40% off long term medication (if needed). They should also include Flea, tick and wormer treatments – and decent discounts on things like blood tests, dentistry – and even dog food!

Your vet can microchip your puppy too (this will be mandatory from June 2024). Another thought – it’s a good idea to consider pet insurance, but pay careful attention to the small print. It’s essential to get insurance whilst your pet is healthy, as pre-existing conditions won’t be covered.

Q: We have a 6-year old French Bulldog and have never bothered with a Healthcare Plan before – but my husband says we should. I’m worried about expense and being tied into something.

French Bulldogs suffer from certain conformational problems which predispose them to breathing difficulties. These are exacerbated by weight gain and hot weather – so I would certainly recommend getting the best Healthcare Plan to keep on top of their wellbeing.

A good plan should not hold you, the customer, to ransom. For example our plans are easy to join and offer good value for money. The Preventative Plan starts from just £15 per month and includes Flea, tick & wormer Treatments, a FREE 6-month health check – and again those discounts on food and dentistry.

What’s more, with a good vet practice you can cancel your plan at any time.

Check out the newly launched Heronden Healthcare Plans here: Herondenvets.co.uk

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