COVID-19 Update

Is St Lukes Veterinary Centre open during COVID-19 Level 4 Alert?

Yes. We are open but are only able to see urgent cases.  Please call the clinic to discuss any concerns you may have about your pet.  Some consultations may be arranged via telemedicine  We can also organise repeat medications, prescription diets etc.

What hours are you open?

Opening hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday.  We have reduced our hours slightly as we have split our team into two for this period.

What if I have an emergency after hours?

As usual, the Animal Emergency Centre at 97 Carrington Rd will be open for any after-hours emergencies.  Please call them on 098492121 if required.

Can I just come down to the clinic if I need anything?

No.  Please call the clinic first.  If you need to pick something up, we will get it ready for you and bring it out when you arrive. If you think your pet needs to see a Vet, a nurse will triage over the phone and make an appointment as required.  For appropriate cases, a Telemedicine consultation via Zoom may be arranged.  These protocols are in place to maintain social distancing during this time.

Can I book my pet in for vaccination during the level-4 lockdown?

No.  At Level 4 we are unable to see any animals for vaccinations.  For puppies and kittens yet to complete their initial vaccinations this may require they be kept inside for a bit longer. Once the level changes we will contact those owners with overdue vaccinations to rebook.

Can I book my pet in for vaccination during the level-3 lockdown?

Yes, you can.  Under the current restrictions though, we have some reduced capacity to see animals for vaccination so please be prepared to book a few days ahead at this time.  If you have a puppy or kitten that still needs to receive its primary vaccinations, we will prioritise these.  Fortunately we do have some margin built into our annual schedule so you don't have to worry about your pet becoming susceptible to these diseases in the next month or two.  Vaccinations for leptospirosis and feline immunodeficiency virus do need to be given within 15 months of the previous injection or a booster vaccination will be required.  We will continue to send out our reminders as usual at this time for your information.

Are you performing surgeries during this time?

Yes, our surgical theatre will be operating for urgent care during Level-4.  This will include orthopaedic surgeries, abdominal surgeries e.g foreign body removal, wound repair, emergency dental care, cancer surgery.  Routine desexing and non urgent procedures can not be perfomred under Level 4.

If my pet needs to be put to sleep can I be with it?

During Level 4, no clients are allowed in the building  We know this is an emotional time regardless of the timing, but if that time should come, please talk to our staff and we will take you through everything beforehand.

Do you still do house calls?

Unfortunately at this time, we will be unable to do a house call to visit your pet.  But if you are unable to leave your house please call us.  Ideally, if you can get someone else to bring your pet in would be the best option.  In an emergency, we would be able to pick up your pet in a cage placed outside your front door.

Can you courier medications or food to us if we are unable to go out? 

Yes, we can.  During the period of the COVID-19 Level 3 lockdown, we can courier medications or food to you with free delivery ( for orders over $30 ) 

What is the protocol if we need to bring my pet into the clinic?

1. Please call first to make an appointment
2. If you have contracted COVID-19 or have any symptoms, such as a cough, fever, tiredness, difficulty breathing please let us know and get someone else to bring your pet in
3. When you arrive, please call us at reception   098455573 and let us know you are here and someone will come down to the carpark to collect your pet Please respect the social distancing rule of 2 metres when we come out to collect your pet.
4. One of our staff will come out and collect your pet and take it into the clinic.  During the examination with the veterinarian, they will call you to discuss any findings.
5. Once any medications are prepared, a nurse will contact you again.  Payment can be made over the phone.  
6. Where possible, we will try and follow up consultations by Telemedicine.

Are there any supply issues for medications or food?

At this current time, there are no known issues with supply and we have normal stock levels on our shelves at this time.  We do recommend if you are ordering repeat medications to call us with plenty of time as courier delivery times etc may take longer during this period.

Can I still book an appointment online?

Under Level 4 we are asking people to make the booking over the phone.  If you would like to arrange a Telemedicine consult please call the clinic to organise this.