Terms and Conditions

Thank you for entrusting the care and attention of your animal(s) to Aireworth Vets. Our Practice Terms and Conditions are outlined below. Please ask for further explanation or clarification if needed.

Fees and Estimates
All fees are subject to VAT at the current rate. Our VAT registration number is 079411938 and is printed on our invoices/statements.
Fee levels are determined by: the time spent on a case; the cost incurred by visiting; whether your requirements were out-of-hours; and any drugs, materials, consumables and diets used. A detailed list of items charged is available for every consultation, surgical procedure and treatment provided by us.
We will happily provide a written estimate of the probable costs of a course of treatment. Please bear in mind that any estimate given can only be approximate as an animal's illness may not follow a conventional course.

Payment
All accounts are due for settlement immediately. We require payment at the end of the consultation or visit; when the animal is discharged; or when any diets, drugs or other items are collected. If payment is not received immediately, an invoice / statement may be generated and should be paid by return.
See Payment Methods for the various ways you can settle your account.

Settlement Terms
Should the account not be settled by return, then a reminder will be sent.
A monthly late payment charge of 2.5% of the outstanding balance will automatically be added to your account.
Should it be necessary for additional reminders to be sent, further charges will be incurred. After due notice to you the client, overdue accounts will be referred to our Debt Collection Agency and a further charge of between 20% and 40% of the total outstanding debt will be incurred.
Any cheque returned by our Bank as unpaid, and any Credit Card payment not honoured will result in further charges being added in respect of bank charges and administrative costs.

Inability to Pay
If, for any reason, you are unable to settle your account as specified, we ask you to discuss the matter, as soon as possible with a member of staff.
All discussions will be held in private and handled with discretion.

Animal Health Insurance
Aireworth Vets strongly supports the principle of insuring your animal against unexpected illness or accidents. Please ask about insurance from any member of staff. Please be aware that it is your responsibility to settle your account with us and then reclaim fees from your Insurance Company.

Complaints and Standards
We hope that you never have reason to complain about the standards of service received from Aireworth Vets. However, if you feel that there is something you wish to complain about or bring to our attention, please contact the Practice Manager or one of the Partners.

Ownership of Records
Case records including radiographs (x-rays) and similar documents are the property of, and will be retained by Aireworth Vets. Copies of a summary of the case history will be passed on by request to another veterinary surgeon taking over the case.

Data Protection
Aireworth Vets is registered as a holder of data with the Information Commissioner (ICO) and adheres to the principles of the Data Protection Act 1998 by ensuring that personal information is used fairly and lawfully.
Aireworth Vets occasionally receive requests for information about a pet's vaccination record from kennels and catteries. In the interest of the animal's health it is our policy to share this information.
We would never divulge information about a client's account or contact details.
Another recognised exemption to the sharing of data (under the data protection act) is if the Practice is asked by the police for information or if disclosures are necessary for a court case or to obtain legal advice.

Out-of-Hours Service
The Practice operates an out-of-hours service for Large Animal (Farm / Equine) emergencies. This can be accessed by telephoning the usual number. Out-of-hours services are charged at a rate dependant on the time of day/night and individual circumstances.
Out-of hour services for Small Animal (pet) emergencies are automatically diverted to 'Vets Now' in Bradford. Who provide a specialist emergency service.

Home visits for Pets
Small Animal clients can request a home visit during our normal surgery hours, instead of booking an appointment at the surgery. Home visits are usually scheduled mid-afternoon on weekdays and may not be suitable for all cases (for example, if special equipment is required it is in your pet's interest to be treated at the surgery). Home visits are charged at a rate dependant on the time taken; the number of staff required; and distance travelled.

Dispensing of medicines
Repeat prescriptions: all animals with on-going conditions will require to be checked periodically as determined by the vet in charge of the case. Checks requiring a consultation or visit will be charged.
Requests for repeat prescriptions must be made one working day in advance prior to collection, as some items have to be ordered from our suppliers. For routine orders (items that we keep in stock) please allow at least 3 hours after placing an order before you come to collect.
A written prescription for the dispensing of medicines elsewhere can be provided on request, a charge is made for this service.

Notice and other communications
Any notice given to you by Aireworth Vets under these terms and conditions is considered valid if sent to your last known address by ordinary post.

Terms & Conditions Last Updated: January 2012