Make a Referral to Optivet South West (Devon)
About Us
Optivet South West is a new independent specialist Veterinary Ophthalmology service, which aims to provide outstanding ophthalmic care to all animal species. We aim to provide a personal, friendly, high quality service to pet owners and referring vets. Our veterinary nurses and animal care assistants are specially trained to care for your pet and will treat every patient as if they were their very own. We understand that referral is not always an option in some cases, and we are always happy to provide advice to veterinary surgeons in practice.
Meet the Team
Robert Lowe
BVSc DVOphthal MRCVS RCVS
Robert graduated from Bristol University in 1998 having already developed an interest in ophthalmology. After a 2-year position in mixed practice, he undertook a 3-year residency at Bristol in equine ophthalmology gaining his Certificate in Ophthalmology in 2002. He then spent the next 3 years working in a private small animal ophthalmology referral practice in Hampshire, before founding Optivet Referrals in 2006. He passed his RCVS Diploma in Veterinary Ophthalmology in 2011. Robert is one of very few specialists in Europe performing retinal re-attachment surgery. Alongside this, Robert provides expertise for complex surgical cases, as well as surgical glaucoma treatment.
Claire Bradley
MVB BSAVA PgCertSAOphthal MRCVS
After a few years spent in general practice, Claire undertook a rotating internship at the Animal Health Trust. Shortly after, she moved to Devon, where she has been practicing ever since. Claire passed the BSAVA Postgraduate Small Animal Ophthalmology Certificate with Distinction in 2019, and has since completed a specialised 3-year ECVO Residency training program. Claire is currently undertaking her Specialist Diploma examinations. Claire enjoys creating strong client relationships and is passionate about caring for each and every patient as if they were her own. Outside of work, Claire can be found roaming the countryside with her English Springer Spaniel, Isla.
Kate Salmon
MA VetMB GPCertSAM PgCertSAOphthal MRCVS
After qualifying from Cambridge in 2000, I spent 15 years in mixed and then small-animal only general practice. During that time, I developed a keen interest in ophthalmology. In 2016, I was given the opportunity to work with a mentor in a practice taking eye referrals, and undertake further study. I gained the BSAVA certificate in small animal ophthalmology three years later and my passion for the subject has continued ever since. I am excited about being part of this highly qualified team and being able to provide consistent top quality and compassionate ophthalmic care. Outside of work I am a busy mum of two active children. Whenever I can, I love to get out running or walking on Dartmoor with our lovely Labrador, Rosco.
How do I refer a patient?
For vets looking to refer a patient or to discuss a case, please complete and send the referral form located HERE, along with a full clinical history, and we will be in touch. We are happy to accept non-urgent referrals in advance of our official opening date of the 24th April 2023. We will be accepting urgent referrals from the 24th April only.
Location
Whilst we eagerly await completion of our purpose-built premises in Dartington, we will be working from South Moor Veterinary Clinic, located in Ivybridge. There is ample free parking for clients, as well as a large garden centre on site should you need to while away some time whilst waiting for your pet. For directions, please click the button below below.
Address
South Moor Veterinary Clinic
Endsleigh
Ivybridge
Devon
PL21 9JL
Contact number - 01803 467 333
Email - sw@optivet.com