VidiVet 24/7 Digital Vet Support at Ivy Lodge Vets

At Ivy Lodge Vets in Upminster, we know that worries about your pet don’t stick to normal opening hours. That’s why we’re delighted to offer VidiVet – a 24/7 digital vet advice service that gives you fast, professional support from UK-registered vets, whenever you need it.

Available free of charge for registered Ivy Lodge Vets clients, VidiVet gives you instant access to veterinary advice and guidance from the comfort of your home.

What Is VidiVet?

VidiVet is a smartphone and tablet app that works a bit like NHS 111 for pets. Instead of turning to search engines or social media when you’re unsure what to do, you can send your concern straight to a real vet via the app and receive a clear, personalised response.

With VidiVet you get:

  • 24/7 access to UK-registered vets
  • Quick, personalised video replies you can watch back at any time
  • Reassurance and guidance when you’re not sure whether your pet needs to be seen in person
  • It’s an extra layer of support for pet owners in Upminster, Romford, Brentwood and across Essex, working alongside the compassionate in-practice care you already receive at Ivy Lodge Vets.
Register with VidiVet Now

How Does the VidiVet App Work?

Using VidiVet is simple:

  1. Download the app
    Get the VidiVet app on your smartphone or tablet from your usual app store.
  2. Register as an Ivy Lodge client
    Use the details you’re registered with at Ivy Lodge Vets. If you’re not yet registered with us, we can help you do that first.
  3. Send your concern
    • Record a short video
    • Upload photos
    • Or type a message explaining what’s worrying you
  4. Get a vet’s response, 24/7
    A qualified vet replies with a personalised video answer, usually within minutes, explaining what’s likely going on and what to do next.
  5. Decide the next steps with confidence

    The vet will advise whether:

    • You can safely monitor your pet at home
    • You should book a routine appointment at Ivy Lodge Vets
    • Or your pet needs urgent or emergency care
Register with VidiVet Now

When Should I Use VidiVet?

VidiVet is perfect for those “I’m not sure if this is serious” moments, including:

  • Your pet seems a bit off colour, quieter than normal or not quite themselves
  • You’re worried about vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing or sneezing, but not sure how urgent it is
  • Minor wounds, lumps, stiffness or changes in behaviour or appetite
  • Questions about ongoing medication, flea/worm treatments or parasite prevention
  • Concerns after a routine operation or vaccination, when you’re unsure if a symptom is normal
  • General pet health, diet, weight and behaviour queries

If you’re ever in doubt, VidiVet can help you avoid unnecessary stress and trips, while making sure you don’t miss something that needs urgent attention.

VidiVet & Our Out-of-Hours / 24-Hour Emergency Service

VidiVet is designed to work alongside, not replace, emergency vet care.

At Ivy Lodge Vets:

  • Our clinic is open Monday–Friday: 8:30am – 6:30pm and Saturday–Sunday: 9:00am – 3:00pm.
  • During opening hours, you can call us directly on 01708 373 671 for urgent advice or to arrange an emergency appointment.
  • After 6:30pm, out-of-hours emergencies are covered by the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, who provide specialist emergency care on our behalf. You can contact them on 01707 666 399
Register with VidiVet Now

How VidiVet Fits In:

If you’re unsure whether your pet needs to be seen immediately, VidiVet can help you decide whether:

  • You should travel straight to emergency care
  • You can wait until Ivy Lodge opens, or
  • You can continue to monitor at home with specific instructions

In a genuine life-threatening emergency, you should always call us or our out-of-hours provider immediately, even if you have already contacted VidiVet. Examples include:

  • Difficulty breathing or collapse
  • Severe bleeding or trauma
  • Seizures, sudden paralysis or inability to stand
  • Suspected poisoning
  • A bloated, painful abdomen
  • Continuous vomiting, especially with blood

In these situations, do not wait for a digital consultation – call 01708 373 671 (within hours) or 01707 666 399 (out of hours) straight away.

Benefits of VidiVet for Ivy Lodge Vets Clients?

By registering for VidiVet, you and your pet benefit from:

  • 24/7 reassurance
    You’re never on your own with a worry – there’s always a vet you can ask.
  • Fast access to expert advice
    No more scrolling through search results or conflicting online opinions.
  • Support tailored to your pet
    VidiVet vets respond to your specific question, having seen your video, photos or description.
  • Fewer unnecessary trips
    Clear guidance on whether you need to come in, use our out-of-hours service, or safely monitor at home.
  • Peace of mind between visits
    Ideal for new pet owners, anxious pets, or those with ongoing health issues.

How to Get Started with VidiVet at Ivy Lodge Vets

  1. Register your pet with Ivy Lodge Vets (if you haven’t already).
  2. Download the VidiVet app on your phone or tablet.
  3. Follow the in-app steps to link your account as an Ivy Lodge client.
  4. Keep the app handy on your home screen – so it’s ready the moment you need advice.
Register with VidiVet Now

If you’re unsure how to set things up, just ask our reception team next time you’re in, or call us on 01708 373 671 and we’ll be happy to help.