A new home vet service has been launched to aid animal owners unable to take their pets to the surgery.

Oxford Animal Hospital in Cowley Road has started a new scheme called 'Vet to Pet'.

Keeley Foley, 26, veterinary director and owner, said: "The main reason we have launched this service is for old and disabled people who cannot get into the practice.

"It is also useful for animals such as cats who can get scared when they are brought into a waiting room full of dogs."

Nitzan Kroter, left, Sam McManus, Philippa Peters and Keeley Foley, of Oxford Animal Hospital, with their new van.

The new van has a fridge, cages and everything needed to carry sick animals in comfort.

Vets can go out and treat sick animals at home or bring them back to the surgery and return them later.

Miss Foley added: "Veterinary practices like ours need to move forward in customer care and this service costs the same as a normal consultation fee, with only a little extra for transport costs."