Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Local Dorset Veterinary Practice Since 1997
Established in 1997, Hillside Vets has been dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care to pets across Dorset. Our practice, founded by Karen Pearce, transformed a former medical facility into a welcoming environment where pets and owners receive tailored support. With a team of experienced professionals, we prioritise preventative care, community engagement, and advanced medical services, including orthopaedics, ophthalmology, and acupuncture. Our facilities feature separate cat and dog areas, on-site diagnostics, and surgical suites to ensure comfort and efficiency.We foster long-term relationships with clients, offering guidance from puppy/kitten visits to senior pet care. Accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, we uphold rigorous standards of excellence. Our commitment extends beyond clinical work through local sponsorships and educational outreach. By combining expertise with a family-oriented ethos, we aim to be a trusted partner in pet healthcare. Our Pet Health Plan helps clients budget for routine care, while home visits cater to specific needs. Over 25 years of service reflect our enduring dedication to Dorsets pet-owning community.
Services
Vaccinations
Neutering
Microchipping
Orthopaedic surgeries
Diagnostics
Dental care
Acupuncture
Home visits
Pet Health Plans
End-of-life care
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of veterinary expertise in Dorset
- RCVS-accredited facilities ensuring high care standards
- Home visits available for eligible cases
- Team members with over a decade of tenure
- Specialist services including orthopaedics and acupuncture
Associations and certifications
- Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Practice Standards Scheme
What people say
Warm family feel
Experienced team members
Modern facilities
Community involvement
Personalised care
Services
Orthopaedic surgeries
We perform fracture repairs, cruciate ligament corrections (TPLO/TTA), and luxating patella surgeries using advanced techniques. Our orthopaedic specialist, Andy Morris, brings extensive experience from PDSA hospital roles. Patients benefit from post-operative monitoring and recovery support within our dedicated facilities.
Acupuncture
This complementary therapy addresses chronic pain and mobility issues in pets. Delivered by qualified veterinarians, sessions integrate with conventional treatments. We tailor plans to individual needs, focusing on improving quality of life for animals with musculoskeletal conditions or arthritis.
Home visits
Available for specific cases where transportation causes distress. Our vets assess suitability based on animal condition and location. This service particularly benefits elderly pets, exotic animals, and those with mobility challenges, maintaining care accessibility across Dorset.
Diagnostics
On-site digital X-ray, ultrasound, and echocardiography facilities enable rapid diagnosis. Our in-house lab processes blood, urine, and skin samples, accelerating treatment decisions. This comprehensive approach supports early detection of conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, and cardiac issues.
Pet Health Plans
Monthly payment schemes covering vaccinations, parasite control, and routine check-ups. Plans include discounts on dental procedures and wellness tests. Designed to spread preventative care costs, these plans help owners budget while ensuring consistent healthcare for dogs, cats, and rabbits.
People
Karen Pearce
Founder
Established Hillside Vets in 1997 after converting a medical practice into a veterinary facility. Pioneered the practice's community-focused approach, fostering long-term client relationships while expanding service offerings to meet evolving pet healthcare needs.
Andy Morris
Orthopaedic Surgeon
RCVS-recognised specialist with experience at PDSA hospitals and overseas charity roles. Leads orthopaedic services since 2015, holding advanced surgical qualifications. Contributes to veterinary research as editorial board member of Veterinary Evidence journal.
Chris Etchells
Ophthalmology Specialist
RCVS advanced practitioner in ophthalmology with expertise in eye surgeries and ultrasound scanning. Joined in 2011 after mixed practice experience. Combines clinical work with mentoring junior staff, maintaining professional development through continuous specialist training.
Holly Lacey
Head Veterinary Nurse
Joined in 2015 and returned after referral hospital experience to lead nursing team. Specialises in inpatient care and wound management. Pursuing emergency care certification while overseeing daily clinical operations and staff training initiatives.
Keith Moore
Senior Veterinary Surgeon
Veterinary graduate with global experience including charity work in Asia-Pacific regions. Provides continuity of care through long-term client relationships. Balances clinical duties with mentoring newer team members while maintaining involvement in local pet health education.
Questions
What preventative care options do you offer?
Our Pet Health Plans provide structured preventative care with monthly payments covering vaccinations, parasite treatments, and routine check-ups, offering discounts on additional services.
Do you provide specialist veterinary treatments?
Yes, we offer orthopaedic surgeries, ophthalmology, acupuncture, and dental care delivered by RCVS-recognised specialists and certificate-holding veterinarians within our team.
Are home visits available for all pets?
Home visits are offered selectively based on animal condition and location suitability. Contact us to discuss specific requirements and availability in your area.
How can I access emergency veterinary care?
For out-of-hours emergencies, we collaborate with Vets Now. Contact our main number for guidance on accessing urgent care services after normal operating hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Payment is required at the time of treatment or upon discharge following procedures.
Can you accommodate large or exotic animals?
While primarily small animal specialists, we treat exotic pets and offer home visits for large animals when appropriate. Contact us to discuss specific requirements.
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