Down the Vets was created from a lifetime spent in veterinary practice. After more than 40 years as a clinician, including many years owning and running Victoria Vets, I found myself wanting to return to the heart of what veterinary medicine should be:
experienced, compassionate, thoughtful care delivered without pressure, targets, or corporate influence.
In recent years, the veterinary profession has undergone significant change, with many practices now owned or controlled by large corporations. While this model works for some, it no longer reflected the kind of practice I wanted to be part of.
I have always valued independent thinking, continuity of care, and honest conversations with clients, and I still have a strong passion for clinical work.
So I chose to create something smaller, simpler, and truly personal — a service that allows me to care for animals the way I believe is right.
Down the Vets exists so I can continue offering independent, experienced veterinary support to trusted friends, long-standing clients, and local families across Buxton, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Hayfield, Peak Forest and the Hope Valley.
Over four decades I’ve developed wide clinical expertise, with particular interests in:
Orthopaedics & mobility problems
Geriatric care & long-term disease management
Cardiology
Dermatology
Animal behaviour
Exotic pet care
Sheep health care
Pet poultry health & welfare
This breadth of experience allows me to approach each case with calm, practical judgment, taking the time to listen, examine thoughtfully, and work with owners to find the best way forward.
By offering home visits, I can give pets the chance to be examined where they feel most relaxed. There is time to talk, time to observe, and time to understand what’s really going on.
Without the pressures of a busy surgery, I can focus entirely on the animal in front of me — and on giving owners clear explanations and sensible, independent advice.
When pets need more advanced investigations or surgery, I am fortunate to work closely with Bollington Vets, an outstanding independent practice led by Nick Rushton.
Nick and I have known each other for many years, and his commitment to high-quality, compassionate care makes him someone I trust wholeheartedly. I have visited his impressive practice on several occasions and have seen the excellent facilities and team he has built.
I consider it a privilege to be able to refer cases to him — in fact, when my own animals need detailed work-ups, Bollington Vets is where I take them.
This collaboration allows Down the Vets to remain small, personal, and independent, while still offering access to the highest level of further care when needed.
Down the Vets is built on simple principles:
experience, kindness, independence, and genuine connection with the people and animals I serve.
If you would like to arrange a visit or discuss your pet’s needs, please feel free to get in touch — I am always happy to help.