Brand Certified
Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals
4.9(118 reviews)
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
Business Details
50 Old Coach Road, Hillsborough, DOW
BT26 6PB, United Kingdom
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
+44 2892 680681
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
https://hillsboroughvetreferrals.co.uk/
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
About
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
VeterinarianCVS Group Plc
Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals is Northern Ireland’s first Specialist-led, multidisciplinary small animal veterinary referral hospital.
We are the only small animal Specialists working in Northern Ireland, and see cases referred to us by general veterinary practitioners from all over the country. We work as an extension to your local veterinary team to expand patient access to state-of-the-art diagnostics, specialist treatments and the highest level of veterinary care. Our hospital is centrally and conveniently located just outside Hillsborough, County Down within easy access of the A1 motorway.
Details
- Requires appointmentAvailable
- RestroomAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
- Wheelchair accessible restroomAvailable
Location
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals
50 Old Coach Road, Hillsborough, DOW
BT26 6PB, United Kingdom
Hours
Certified by Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals • Oct 18, 2026
Monday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed
Reviews
4.9
118 reviews
5 stars
113
4 stars
3
3 stars0
2 stars0
1 star
2
- PBPhil Bonny5 days ago5.0Emergency visit at 11.30pm rang the doorbell once, could see people working in cubicles behind the smoked glass. They came to the door a couple of minutes later. Wonderful service from Sophie the vet on call. Explained what she was doing, what was wrong with dog, and what I needed to do over the next few days. Will be my first call if I need out of hours assistance again.
- CKcaren mc kennaOct 3, 20265.0Thank you Joanna, Margo, Sasha and all the other lovely nurses whose names I didn’t get. Thank you for taking such amazing care of Blanche. She was so loved during her stay, and I could honestly cry thinking about how well you all looked after her. Joanna is incredibly skilled i can’t get over how well Blanche looks after such a a big operation Forever grateful to you all. ❤️
- DMDawn MatchettAug 3, 20265.0Our world fell apart just over 6 months ago when we were told our beautiful little Bounty had a life threatening tumour in his lung. Then we were introduced to the most wonderful man. Aidan not only is a genius but a gentleman. It was such an emotional journey and Aidan was exceptional as a vet but more importantly as a decent human being. 6 months later and our little cocker remains cancer free. Thank you to you and your whole team. Thank you actually falls short. There are no words to describe our gratitude.
- GDGeorge O DohertyJul 31, 20265.0Had to travel to N.I.V.S from Derry to see eye specialist Steven, Excellant service.
- NNNicolaMay 14, 20265.02 months ago we lost our dog Lupin due to a perforated bowel. His prognosis was poor from the beginning. Even though we lost him, I still think of the vets at Nivs who cared for him so fondly. Thank you for everything you have all done and continue to do for pet owners and most importantly the pets themselves. Highly professional and dedicated. We will always remember your kindness ❤️
Frequently Asked Questions About Hillsborough Veterinary Referrals
How do I make an appointment?
As we are a referral only clinic your vet will need to refer you by completing an online referral form via our website to start the referral process. Our reception staff will then contact you using the information provided and an appointment can be arranged at a mutually convenient time.
What will happen during the appointment?
During your appointment, we will obtain a detailed history of your pet’s medical background as well as information on the current problem. A thorough clinical examination of your pet will then be performed and any findings and provisional diagnoses will be fully discussed with you at that time. We make every effort to perform investigations and possible surgery during the same visit.
How long is my appointment going to be?
A first consultation will usually be around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the circumstances.
How long will my pet be in the hospital?
This is entirely dependent on the problem. Our reception staff will be able to give you approximate time scales and help you plan your trip.
The Specialist referral practice is a long way away. Will I have to go back many times?
Not necessarily. Often follow-up tests will be performed by your own vet and future care is overseen by your Specialist. We work with your vet to minimise journey times whilst optimising care for your pet.
Why should I travel further to see a Specialist?
A Specialist is an expert in their particular field and your vet will refer you to the appropriate specialist according to your pet’s presenting symptoms and needs.
What is a Specialist referral?
A referral to a member of our expert team gives you the peace of mind that your pet is in the very best of hands.
A Veterinary Specialist is similar to a consultant doctor. To become a Specialist, a vet must focus entirely on their area of specialisation for three to five years, training under an experienced Specialist in that field. During this time they will examine, diagnose and treat a wide range of cases, publish clinical research in this field and prove themselves to be at the forefront of their discipline before completing advanced examinations.
How do I claim from my insurance company?
If you have pet insurance, you will need to inform your insurance company as soon as possible that you wish to make a claim. They will inform you of the process and, depending on your insurance company’s processes, you will need to bring a claim form, or your policy number, with you to your appointment. Any excesses should be paid at the time of consultation or discharge.
Direct claims – A direct claim is when your insurance company reimburses the veterinary practice. Each insurance company varies with their policy on paying a veterinary practice so please check with your insurance provider prior to your appointment. Please note, we do charge a Direct Claim Fee for this service. Please call us for information.
Indirect claims – An indirect claim is when the insurance company reimburses the policyholder. In this case, you would pay your pet’s veterinary bill in full before the claim can be processed and the insurance company will send you payment directly.
In the unfortunate event your insurance company refuses to pay your claim, or the cost exceeds your policy limit, please be aware that you will be responsible for the full payment of your bill.
How much is a consultation?
We will inform of the cost of the consultation appointment at the time of booking and endeavour to provide you with an accurate estimate of treatment before any investigations or procedures are performed. The team will always keep you up to date about charges on your account.
How can I make an appointment at Northern Ireland Veterinary Specialists?
As a referral only clinic, your vet must refer you by completing an online referral form via our website. Our reception staff will then contact you to arrange an appointment at a convenient time.
What should I expect during my pet's appointment?
We will take a detailed history of your pet’s medical background, perform a thorough clinical examination, discuss findings and provisional diagnoses, and aim to perform necessary investigations or surgeries during the same visit.
How long is a typical first consultation?
A first consultation usually lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pet’s circumstances.
Will my pet have to stay in the hospital for a long time?
The length of stay depends on the specific health issue. Our reception staff can give you approximate time scales to help plan your visit.
How often will I need to visit the specialist clinic?
Not necessarily frequently. Follow-up tests are often performed by your own vet with future care overseen by our specialists to minimize travel while optimizing care.
Why should I travel to see a veterinary specialist?
Specialists are experts in their fields. Your vet will refer you to the appropriate specialist based on your pet’s symptoms and needs to ensure the highest level of care.
How do I file an insurance claim for my pet's treatment?
Inform your insurance company as soon as possible. Depending on their process, you may need to bring a claim form or policy number to your appointment. We offer both direct and indirect claim options, with direct claims incurring a fee.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept BACS, MAESTRO, MASTERCARD, and VISA payments.
What other veterinary hospitals are near Northern Ireland Veterinary Specialists?
Nearby veterinary hospitals include Cromlyn House Veterinary Hospital and MiNightVet Lisburn, which can be useful for emergency or follow-up care close to the area.
Are there places nearby where I can dine before or after my visit?
Yes, Mill Farm Accommodation and Mill Farm Hillsborough offer British and deli-style dining options nearby, perfect for enjoying a meal around your visit.
What recreational facilities are available near Northern Ireland Veterinary Specialists?
The Coach Club Snooker & Pool Hall provides billiards and pub services nearby, and fitness venues like Downshire YM FC and Fitness Matters are also close, offering sports and gym facilities.
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