Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinary Partner in the Lake District
Oakhill Veterinary Group has been dedicated to animal care in the Lake District for over six decades, with a veterinary and nursing team boasting over 300 years of combined experience. Our team, comprising skilled professionals passionate about animal welfare, provides comprehensive care for pets and livestock, from routine check-ups to complex surgical procedures. We prioritise client communication, ensuring pet owners are fully informed throughout their animal's medical journey.With state-of-the-art facilities in Windermere and Ambleside, we offer 24/7 emergency services, advanced diagnostic imaging, and specialist rehabilitation therapies. Our commitment to continuous learning and community engagement has made us a trusted partner for pet owners and referring veterinary practices across Cumbria.
Services
Pet Health Plans
Emergency Care
Dental Services
Orthopaedic Surgery
Canine Rehabilitation
Diagnostic Imaging
Farm Animal Care
Pet Blood Bank
Hydrotherapy
Acupuncture
Details
- Year established: 1950
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of veterinary experience in the Lake District
- Our team includes specialists in orthopaedics, dentistry and rehabilitation
- 24/7 emergency care available 365 days a year
- We operate state-of-the-art facilities with advanced diagnostic equipment
- We provide tailored rehabilitation programmes for canine patients
What people say
Expert veterinary care
Compassionate staff
24/7 emergency service
Advanced facilities
Knowledgeable team
Services
Orthopaedic Surgery
Our specialist orthopaedic surgeons perform advanced procedures including cruciate ligament repairs, hip replacements and fracture fixation. Using modern techniques like Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy (TPLO) and external skeletal fixation, we treat both traumatic injuries and developmental conditions. The service combines pre-operative diagnostics with post-operative rehabilitation to ensure optimal recovery for companion animals and working dogs across Cumbria.
Canine Rehabilitation
The Animal Rehabilitation Centre offers hydrotherapy, laser therapy and manual physiotherapy for dogs recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions. Our underwater treadmill and gait analysis technology support muscle strengthening while minimising joint stress. Treatment plans integrate veterinary oversight with tailored exercise programmes to improve mobility and quality of life for pets with orthopaedic or neurological conditions.
Dental Services
Comprehensive dental care includes complex extractions, periodontal therapy and treatment for feline chronic gingivostomatitis. Our facilities handle both routine procedures and specialist interventions like oral tumour excision. Using digital imaging and modern anaesthetic protocols, we address dental disease in cats and dogs while educating owners on preventive home care strategies to maintain oral health.
Emergency Care
Available 24 hours a day, our emergency service treats critical cases ranging from trauma injuries to acute medical conditions. The on-call team has immediate access to diagnostic equipment, surgical facilities and inpatient care. We prioritise rapid assessment and stabilisation while maintaining communication with regular veterinary practices for ongoing patient management.
Diagnostic Imaging
Advanced imaging capabilities include digital radiography, ultrasonography and goniometry for precise diagnosis. The service supports both internal cases and referrals, providing detailed visualisation of musculoskeletal and internal organ systems. These tools guide treatment decisions for conditions ranging from arthritis to abdominal abnormalities, integrating with other specialist services for comprehensive patient care.
People
Matthew Stables
Clinical Director
Qualified veterinary surgeon with over 20 years' experience at Oakhill, specialising in anaesthesia and small animal medicine. Joined as a work experience student aged 11 and now leads the clinical team. Promotes veterinary education and community engagement in animal welfare.
Alex Kirby
Clinical Director
Specialist in small animal orthopaedics with postgraduate qualifications. Provides referral-level surgical expertise while maintaining active involvement in local pet healthcare. Combines clinical work with outdoor activities in the Lake District with his Irish terriers.
Marcelle Cassar
Veterinary Physiotherapist
Certified in canine rehabilitation and acupuncture, leading the Animal Rehabilitation Centre. Develops tailored therapy programmes combining hydrotherapy, laser treatment and manual techniques. Passionate about improving mobility and quality of life for dogs with chronic conditions.
Kathryn Sharpe
Senior Veterinary Surgeon
Dedicated small animal surgeon with specialist certificate in surgical procedures. Focuses on both clinical excellence and herd health planning for local pet populations. Active fell runner who enjoys exploring Lake District landscapes with her Border Terrier.
Rebecca Sisson
Veterinary Physiotherapist
Qualified zoologist turned veterinary physiotherapist specialising in post-operative rehabilitation. Brings expertise in equine and canine musculoskeletal conditions to the team. Enjoys outdoor activities in the Lake District while working with her rescue dog and cat.
Questions
What emergency services do you offer?
We provide 24/7 emergency veterinary care 365 days a year at our Windermere surgery with experienced on-call vets available for urgent cases.
Do you accept referral cases?
Yes, we welcome referrals from other veterinary practices for specialist orthopaedic, dental and rehabilitation treatments using our advanced facilities.
What rehabilitation therapies are available?
Our Animal Rehabilitation Centre offers hydrotherapy, laser therapy, acupuncture and manual physiotherapy for dogs recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions.
Are home visits available?
While we recommend clinic visits for full equipment access, emergency home visits may be arranged for large animals or exceptional circumstances after initial consultation.
How can I register my pet?
Pet registration can be completed online through our website or by contacting either our Windermere or Ambleside surgery during opening hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit/debit cards, cash payments and online transfers for veterinary services and retail purchases at our clinic shops.
