First Opinion Veterinary Ultrasound

Camilla has provided our practice with an ad hoc ultrasound service for over 2 years. Whilst she has visited for a single scan, we normally book in 2 or 3 patients per visit. Last week was her first session since Covid lockdown and we had a backlog of 6 cases. After that mammoth PPE clad session, Camilla even agreed to take a quick look at a possibly pregnant wild hedgehog.

The online booking system works very well. Additionally, I usually email quick case summaries and importantly state what I hope to gain from the examination, which has ranged from confirmation of a diagnosis, FNAs of a palpable mass or simply the next investigation in a difficult case.

During the visit, Camilla smoothly slots into the practice team, she is happy to advise a sedation protocol and clip the patient whilst discussing the case. Equally, she never seems offended when a nurse wants to take charge of clipping. Whilst scanning, Camilla is methodical and thorough. With her general practice experience and certificate level knowledge, she will discuss implications of findings, approach to cases and the discussions with owners.

I normally decline discussing the examination with owners at discharge. I prefer to wait until I have read Camilla’s detailed written report, which has always been available within 24 hours. This contains a brief summary section, which often contains advice.

We have a practice ultrasound machine which I’ve never had the inclination to learn to use beyond the occasional look at a uterus or bladder. However, Camilla is passionate about ultrasound and surprisingly still enthusiastic on the sixth scan. She will talk through the examination, pointing out the meaning of the shades of grey and discuss the limitations of the examination. Camilla encourages other vets to develop their scanning skills and has even distributed her own teaching resources.

I thoroughly recommend FOVU which I would describe as very professional, yet flexible, realistic and friendly. During Covid lockdown, Camilla offered, free of charge remote help with cases and talk-through-scanning, such assistance if you really needed it counted for a lot.

Jeremy Kirk VetMB PhD MRCVS

Fantastic service. Camilla offers a thorough scan and detailed report. She is also a lovely person and excellent all round vet. Always happy to discuss a case, and goes out of her way to offer next day appointment.