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Business Details
15 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Rugeley Veterinary Practice
Established in August 2011, Number 1 Vets is an independent small animal veterinary practice founded by James Cadwallader BVSc MRCVS. Our team of qualified veterinary nurses and clinicians specialise in companion animal care, treating species ranging from dogs and cats to exotic rodents. We prioritise high-standard veterinary care with value for money, offering services including annual vaccinations, orthopaedic surgery, and dedicated pet wards to reduce stress during stays. Our facilities feature separate dog and cat waiting areas, modern diagnostic equipment, and a focus on client education through nursing consultations.

Located in Rugeley with easy access via road and public transport, we combine local knowledge with national experience from locum work across the UK. Our commitment to animal welfare extends to eco-friendly practices, including paper recycling initiatives. With over a decade of experience in small animal medicine, we provide continuity of care through partnerships with Pool House Veterinary Hospital for 24/7 emergency services.
Services
Consultations Neutering Microchipping Pet Passports Radiography Ultrasonography Laboratory Tests Chemotherapy Nursing Consultations Dentistry
Details
  • Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
  • Specialise exclusively in small animal veterinary care since 2011
  • Team includes experienced veterinary nurses with specialist qualifications
  • Dedicated pet wards and separate waiting areas for reduced stress
  • 24/7 emergency cover through Pool House Veterinary Hospital partnership
  • Eco-conscious practice with active paper recycling initiatives
What people say
Prompt actions saved my eye VIP treatment for pets Caring and compassionate Safe hands for animals Dignified end-of-life care
Services
Veterinary Consultations
Comprehensive consultations with minimum 10-minute appointments ensure thorough pet health assessments. Our experienced vets provide expert diagnosis and treatment plans for all small animal species. Clients benefit from unhurried consultations focused on preventive care and early disease detection.
Emergency Care
24/7 emergency cover through Pool House Veterinary Hospital partnership ensures continuous care outside regular hours. Dedicated night staff with critical care expertise maintain treatment continuity for our patients. Emergency referrals receive immediate specialist attention while maintaining client communication.
Surgical Procedures
Modern surgical facilities with dedicated theatre for orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures. Patients receive continuous nurse monitoring during anaesthesia. Specialised equipment enables complex procedures including TPLO for cruciate injuries and BOAS surgery for brachycephalic breeds.
Diagnostic Imaging
Advanced radiography and ultrasonography services enable precise internal diagnostics. Digital imaging systems allow immediate result sharing with specialists. Ultrasound guidance enhances biopsy accuracy and pregnancy confirmation while minimising patient discomfort.
Nursing Clinics
Free dental assessments, weight management programs, and senior pet screenings delivered by qualified veterinary nurses. These sessions focus on preventive care education and early intervention strategies to maintain long-term pet health and wellbeing.
People
James Cadwallader
Proprietor
MRCVS-registered vet with over 20 years' experience in small animal care. Founded Number 1 Vets in 2011 after 11 years at Pool House Veterinary Hospital. Specialises in companion animal medicine and holds postgraduate qualifications in small animal medicine.
Sam Boyce
Head Veterinary Nurse
RVN with 15+ years' experience in small animal nursing. Holds advanced qualifications in rabbit nursing and veterinary health advising. Trains student nurses and specialises in compassionate patient care while maintaining high clinical standards.
Lisa Elliott
Veterinary Surgeon
MRCVS member with 15 years' experience in small animal practice. Holds a certificate in small animal medicine from the University of Liverpool. Specialises in internal medicine and ultrasonography diagnostics for complex cases.
Dinithri Jayawardena
Veterinary Surgeon
MRCVS-registered vet with expertise in orthopaedic surgery and soft tissue procedures. Joined Number 1 Vets in 2021 after international locum experience. Specialises in TPLO procedures and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome treatments.
Laura Hicks
Veterinary Nurse
Local Rugeley resident and RVN with specialist training in pet diabetes management and anaesthesia. Clinical coach for student nurses and active member of Girlguiding UK. Provides compassionate care across surgical, medical, and emergency cases.
Questions
What species do you treat?
We specialise in small animals including dogs, cats, rodents, rabbits, and exotic pets. Our facilities and expertise cater specifically to companion animals rather than farm or equine species.
Do you offer 24-hour emergency care?
While our practice hours are Monday-Saturday, we partner with Pool House Veterinary Hospital for 24/7 emergency cover. Their dedicated night team provides urgent care while maintaining treatment continuity with our records.
What surgical options are available?
Our theatre handles orthopaedic procedures like TPLO, BOAS surgery, and soft tissue operations. Complex cases benefit from Pool House Veterinary Hospital's specialist surgical support through our referral partnership.
How do you support preventive pet care?
We offer vaccination programs, weight management clinics, dental health checks, and senior pet screenings. Our nursing team provides free consultations focused on preventive care and early disease detection.
What diagnostic facilities do you have?
Modern digital radiography with adjustable tables, ultrasonography for internal imaging, and in-house lab testing capabilities. Critical results can be shared electronically with specialists for rapid second opinions.
Can I access eco-friendly services?
We actively recycle paper, cardboard, and tins as part of our environmental commitment. Our practice operations incorporate sustainable practices while maintaining clinical hygiene standards for animal care.