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About The Vet Centre

 

A new era at The Vet Centre

The Vet Centre entered a new era in February 2024, when it became an independent and privately owned practice.

The new owners are 4 vet shareholders (Dr Emily Buswell, Dr Andy David, Dr Thomas Traill and Dr Sarah Briggs) who work day-to-day within the business. They have partnered with Franklin Vets, a larger independent practice that will provide its back-office support.

Historically, The Vet Centre was started in 1960 as the Otamatea Veterinary Club. It was founded by local farmers to encourage and attract veterinarians to the area and provide services to their farming businesses.

From its humble beginnings of one vet working out of a house at Maungaturoto, the practice has grown to include clinics in Waipu, Ruawai, Mangawhai and Ruakaka. This was a very common model at the time and was hugely successful. However, changes in population and farming businesses in recent times have meant it was time to transition to a new business model with “boots on the ground” management.

The team is very excited to continue to foster strong relationships and provide quality service to our clients and looks forward to working with you to grow your farm business and ensure your pets live their best lives.

What you can expect

Our practice provides a 24-hour emergency service for both production and companion animals for urgent needs that occur outside of normal business hours. The contact phone numbers for the after-hours emergency service are the same as those for business hours, with calls being received by our after-hours support staff who liaise with on-call veterinarians.

Our clinics are well stocked for production and companion animal health needs and pet care products and our staff are trained to assist you with product choices and health advice.

Our vets are always happy to give advice on products or problems with your animals or give individual advice on animal health or production problems on your farm.