Our dog has recently been treated for an ear infection by the vet Sarah Turner at Downlands veterinary group, who we have been with for a number of years, she is so professional and a lovely human being, simply the best. many thanks, MB/GH Portsmouth.

I brought my Doberman here last year with bloat — a life-threatening, time-sensitive emergency. Instead of rushing to help, I was told nothing would be done until I paid £2,000 up front. Once I managed to get the money, the amount was raised again to £3,000. While every minute counted, my dog lay on the floor in pain as I begged for help. The staff were cold, detached, and dismissive — I was even told I could “go somewhere else if I didn’t like it.” The vet spoke down to me, and the receptionist showed no compassion. It felt like a “computer says no” situation, with no urgency or care for what was happening in front of them. I sat in tears while my boy was slipping away. This was one of the hardest experiences of my life. My dog died on the table before the operation was even completed, yet they still demanded full payment. When I asked to see him the next day, I was told he had already been placed in the freezer. My family had to go back to collect his collar because I couldn’t face returning there. This nightmare didn’t just cost me my dog. It has left me with a CCJ, £2,400 in debt, damaged credit, and the loss of the home I had been saving for. In total they charged £4,400 for a dog who was left waiting over an hour without proper care. I understand bloat can be fatal, but time and compassion make all the difference — and both were absent here. I have since tried to resolve this with the company, but all I’ve received is the usual corporate runaround: passed from person to person and told I could “make a complaint” if I wished. Again, detached and uncaring. Corporate vets like this care only about money, not the animals or the families who love them. Please — avoid Vets Now and Downland at all costs. Trust independent vets who still put patients first.

Very caring and approachable vets. Always happy to help and advise, genuinely happy and loving their work. David is passionate about pets and have great memory for his patients. Always enjoy my visits in Downlands!

Downland provided and excellent level of care in keeping my dog alive. The vets kept me up-to-date with her progress and kept me assured the whole time she was with them, even when she wasn't doing great, they kept my in the know with phone call updates. Very pleased with the care the give animals and owners alike.

Excellent, friendly, knowledgeable service. Always have time for my stupid questions and very happy to help. I recommend the Pet Plan as so many of my dogs non-urgent needs are covered by a nurse appointment, rather than wasting a Vets valuable time.