A NEW specialist vet has had a ‘fantastic’ start since opening last month.

Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics opened in Poole Road in June and began taking pets in for treatments.

Run by internationally renowned vets, Harry Scott and Phil Witte, the pair collaborated to produce the second edition of the world’s first work on feline orthopaedics, after Harry worked on the first edition in 2006.

The new centre runs as referral only, with local vets referring pets needing surgery.

“Some local vets know all about us and are happy ringing up, and this is something that we've wanted, that we have a relationship with local vets and they ring up and feel comfortable just talking to us,” Phil said.

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“That was one of the most important things about setting this up, really.”

Harry said the pair have been enjoying the new facility, with no expense spared on ‘cutting edge’ technology, like a CT scanner and x-ray setup.

“I think that what we've done actually works very well without destroying the character or the fabric of the building,” he said.

“We've actually made it into a very serviceable orthopaedic referral centre for animals, with a family atmosphere as well.

“I think because it is a relatively small facility at the moment, it's me, Phil and three qualified nurses, we expect it to grow, but we're not thinking that it's going to become anything with 100 staff, like some of the referral centres.”

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Harry first qualified as a vet in 1977 – and this is his third business he has set up, while it is Phil’s first.

The pair have worked across the country, with Harry’s career seeing him work for the RSPCA, as a GP vet and a specialist orthopaedic vet, while Phil worked with Harry in Ringwood before moving to work in Cornwall.

Since opening, the surgery has seen a gradual increase in cases, operating on cats and dogs, including hip and knee replacements and pelvic and ankle fractures.

“It's been in the making for a long time,” Harry said.

“There's been a lot of anticipation, to actually be in, at last, it’s great to have the place to ourselves.”

Phil added: “It's fantastic.”