Groundbreaking 'fear-free' vets’ practice to open in Wigan and create new jobs

Harrison Family Vets has started fitting out a newly built unit in Tyldesley, located just off Mosley Common Road. As part of its latest expansion, the group is now actively recruiting for clinic directors, veterinary surgeons, registered veterinary nurses and client care co-ordinators.

Among the innovative features of the Yorkshire-based vets' practice are waiting areas with bespoke pods, which are all spaced at least 2m apart, giving clients their own space and shielding pets from the stresses of facing other pets in a traditional waiting room.

The pods will also have their own screens displaying pet jokes and facts, as well as information about pet welfare and nutrition.

There are no reception desks and instead the front of house teams will have the autonomy to freely move around the practice and interact with clients and their pets. Separate cat and dog wards will also offer mood lighting, and music to create a calming atmosphere.

Harrison Family Vets launched in the UK in 2021 and currently has five practices nationwide.

Operations director Kristie Faulkner said: "Only pet owners can join our team, because you can’t fully understand our culture unless a pet is an integral member of your family.

“We’re striving to push the boundaries of pet care, customer service and employee wellbeing, in an environment that is a long way from a traditional veterinary practice.”