Update – 25 March 2026

Update – 25 March 2026

Since our last update, there have been several significant developments.

IVC Evidensia has now delayed the proposed closure of Great Western Exotics until 2 April 2026, stating that it is “exploring future options”. However, this delay has not been accompanied by any clear information for clients or referring practices about how continuity of care will be maintained.

In practice, the service is already significantly reduced. Great Western Exotics is no longer accepting new clients or routine referrals and has largely been limiting its work to emergency cases. This is leaving many veterinary practices and owners uncertain about where complex or urgent cases can now be referred.

At the same time, the alternative practices signposted by IVC / Vets Now do not offer directly comparable specialist provision. One of these practices (Highcroft, Bristol) is no longer accepting exotic referrals following the departure of its exotics vet.

These developments raise serious concerns about referral capacity and access to appropriate specialist care.

The issue has now received national media attention, including coverage in The Guardian, alongside ongoing reporting in veterinary publications. The Competition and Markets Authority has also published its findings into the veterinary sector this week, focusing largely on pricing and transparency — but not addressing specialist provision or referral infrastructure.

Despite the delay, the core concerns remain unchanged — and for many patients, the situation is already deteriorating.

We continue to call for:

Full transparency regarding the rationale for closure

A published animal welfare impact assessment

Clear plans for continuity of care and referral capacity

Meaningful engagement with the veterinary community