Angus-based vet group is a real diamond as it reaches its 75th year

Pictured (l-r) are: Director and vet, Gavin Durston; director and vet Ed Hill, Ashley Wilkie, senior mixed and equine vet, Roddie Binnie and Graeme Richardson.

Thrums Vets opened its doors in 1948 as a large animal practice, set up by Jim Baillie, a respected vet from Brechin to support local farmers.

Now a thriving mixed practice treating pets, horses and farm animals across Angus and Perthshire from its four practices, Thrums employs a dedicated team of 27 vets. Ashley Wilkie, registered veterinary nurse and associate managing director, said: “We’re proud of our agricultural heritage and the support we have received from the farming community over the years. We now look after animals both large and small from our practices in Kirriemuir, Forfar, Blairgowrie, Scone and but have not forgotten our farming roots!”

Thrums is a central part of XLVets, a community of independently-owned veterinary practices that work collaboratively for the greater good of the industry.

Farming vet and Director, Ed Hill, said: “We understand that a farm is a business and do everything we can to care for farm animals, but also help farmers balance productivity and sustainability. We take a collaborative approach to sharing knowledge, discussing problems and searching for the best solutions for beef, sheep and dairy farms and for poultry and game birds. We also look after smallholders and our knowledge of the farms and farmers in our community is second to none.”

Director Graeme Richardson, a vet with Thrums for 32 years, added: “Over the last 75 years the veterinary industry has changed in many ways, but what has always remained vitally important is that personal relationship we have with our clients.

“The advancement in technology has been huge - who would have thought even just three years ago that we would be able to bring keyhole surgery to pets! Just like when Jim started out, we provide out-of-hours emergency care service. We’re always here for our clients, and Jim’s ethos of dedication and professional care is still the cornerstone of our practice. We look forward to continuing to be trusted partners in our communities for many more years to come.”