I would strongly caution anyone considering Virtue Vets for international pet travel. I spent nearly £1,000 at the South Kensington (blood test and fit-to-fly certificate) and Boltons clinics for my puppy’s trip abroad. Relying on their advice, my dog could not return to the UK with me.
1. MISLEADING PREPARATION TIMELINE — TOLD ONE WEEK WAS ENOUGH
Before booking my flight, I asked how early to prepare my dog’s documents and book appointments. I was told ONE WEEK was sufficient. I relied on that advice, booked my flight, sent the requested information and attended for the blood test.
The practice later said results could take around 25 days or longer. When I specifically asked whether this meant we could not return to the UK for two months, their written reply on 7 July was: “No, you will be fine to return.”
They did not clearly explain that leaving without a confirmed satisfactory result could delay my dog’s return by months if she failed. Only after I had arrived abroad and learned that my dog’s blood test result did not meet the requirements did I consult other vets and authorities. They told me preparation should have started at least FOUR WEEKS before travel, with additional time if results were delayed or unsuccessful. This was advice I needed from Virtue Vets BEFORE I booked my flight.
2. FAILED TEST REPORTED AS A PASS — THEN TOLD OF A FOUR-MONTH DELAY
On 4 August, after we had travelled, the vet emailed that the result had arrived and my dog’s antibody levels were acceptable. Exactly one week later, on 11 August, she admitted misreading it: the result was 0.38 IU/ml, below the required 0.5.
Only then was I told my dog needed another vaccination, at least 30 days before retesting abroad, and a three-month wait from the new blood sample if she passed—approximately FOUR MORE MONTHS before returning under their proposed plan.
I understand that no vet can guarantee a successful test. My complaint concerns preparation advice, unexplained consequences, misleading reassurance and an incorrectly reported result. “We cannot guarantee blood test results” does not address those failures.
3. CHARGED FOR A “MANDATORY” CERTIFICATE NOT REQUIRED FOR MY JOURNEY
I specifically asked whether a separate fit-to-fly certificate was mandatory and paid after being told it was. After departure, my airline and the destination country’s animal quarantine authority both confirmed it was not required for my particular journey. Had the practice properly checked before charging me?
The response was deeply disappointing. As I was stuck abroad dealing with my dog’s return problem, my friend in London visited on my behalf. They reported that the practice denied responsibility because test results cannot be guaranteed, and that the owner was present, sipping tea, but offered no apology or solution. Although the vet apologised by email for misreading the result, I do not feel the wider failures have been addressed.
My dog was under a year old and has separation anxiety. I spent this money to keep her with me. Instead, I returned home without her and faced months apart. She is my family; the distress goes far beyond money.
This experience leaves me with two serious concerns:
1. Did the practice take my money for work it did not adequately understand, while presenting itself as knowledgeable?
2. Or did it knowingly give misleading advice to persuade me to pay for its services?
I cannot establish their motives, but these repeated errors have damaged my trust. I urge other owners to be cautious before paying for international pet travel services.
Do not get it wrong - this is not a vet clinic ...
I would suggest avoiding if your pet is unwell.
They seem to have no clue what may be the cause of sickness, so they prescribe many different medications and hope for the best. As a result they also insist on unnecesary surgeries like teeth extractions , and seem not to care about the pets welbeing overall trying to make you visit as frequently as possible even though knowing the pet feels stressed to come there. They make an appointment, then find excuses why they have done nothing, and insist on coming back another day to try again.
General 9-to-5 office model , no care taken , phone goes to voicemail the second the clinic closes, and they offer "out of hours" phone number of another clinic, which they do not even share any medical record with in case of out of hours emergency...
Dr. Tara and Nadzieja were extremely kind and very affectionate to animals and offer excellent service. Dr. Tara listened attentively and thoughtfully to the emergency circumstances around Pika a young scottish fold cat and offered her best personal care throughout, and took the time to give me knowledge of what was going on in great detail so I could stay informed.
The clinic is extremely transparent with their process, what care options they recommend and in explaining what's going on with any pet brought in sick so that the owner feels assured throughout the process. Virtue vets is the best veterinary service in the area, do not hesitate to book!
This is the best vet clinic in London. Everyone is kind, caring, and loving, you can tell they all love animals! Especially Dr. Sarah and Nadzieja. We have been clients since my puppy came home, and he loves visiting. They allow him to explore and sniff around, and get love and pets from everyone in the clinic (his favorite part). Dr. Sarah is so patient, knowledgable, and personable, and Nadzieja is so sweet, and helpful. One of the best parts of this clinic is their membership, having the ability to email and call for any concerns really alleviates any anxieties, especially as the staff is quick to reply and help. So grateful to have found this clinic, it has made my journey as a pet parent easier and more enjoyable.
Virtue Vets is a tremendous addition to the neighbourhood. The vet care is top notch, staff could not be friendlier or more knowledgeable and their facilities are state of the art. From standard care and maintenance to more complex issues, they have provided my dogs (and I) great care and service. I highly recommend them.
They really love and care for my cat, Salem, as though he were their family. Thank you
Dr Tara, Dr Millie, Dr Sol and the entire team are amazing and genuinely caring. I had done vaccinations for my doggy there, and recently had his teeth cleaned - it went smooth and well. Dr Tara called me when he woke up from his anesthesia and he was very active, happy and at ease when I came to pick him up. You can see that the team really spoiled him with love, I think he was never as happy to go to the vet as he does now.
So happy to have found this vet! My dog can be reactive with strangers manipulating him, but Dr. Jenny took the time to get to know him and build trust. Now he just walks in and goes directly up to her to say hi. Makes vet visits so stress-free for both my dog and me. Also, they were so helpful with travel documentation.
This was our first visit for a general health check and it couldn’t have gone better. The clinic is modern and calm, and the staff were very welcoming. My pet was relaxed the entire time.
I bring my 4 month old puppy here all the time. I can honestly say they have always my puppy with such care and he loves coming to the vets. they’re all so friendly and kind and just want what’s best for you animal. Will forever recommend you to anyone who needs a vet!!
