A South Leeds veterinary practice is celebrating its second anniversary after treating more than 6,000 pets and establishing itself as a key healthcare hub for local animal owners.
Harrison Family Vets opened its doors at St George’s Retail Park in Middleton in October 2024, becoming the area’s only independent veterinary practice. Over the past two years, the clinic has treated 3,445 dogs, 2,238 cats, 168 rabbits, and 93 guinea pigs, alongside a wider patient list including rats, chinchillas, ducks, birds, squirrels, hedgehogs, reptiles, and parrots.
Data released by the practice to mark the milestone reveals that the French Bulldog is the most popular dog breed in South Leeds, followed closely by the Cocker Spaniel and Cockapoo. Bella has proven to be the most popular dog name in the area, while Luna takes top spot for cats.
The clinic was specifically designed around a “Fear Free” ethos to minimise stress and anxiety during visits, featuring dedicated waiting pods, calming lighting, and separate dog and cat wards. To support nervous dogs, the team hosts regular ‘cuddle clinics’ to build positive associations with veterinary care, and all eight team members are currently working towards formal Fear Free professional accreditations.
“Our ethos is about providing exceptional pet care in a stress-free environment at an affordable price, and this has made us very popular in the local community,” said Francisco Botet Gomez, clinic director at Harrison Family Vets in Leeds. “We’re also very accessible, within a small retail park with lots of parking right outside.”
“In addition to caring for an ever-growing number of local cats, dogs and other small animals, we also regularly see exotic pets, including reptiles and parrots, and even ducks and chickens, which makes it a fun and fascinating environment to work in.”
The Middleton venue was the first Yorkshire location for the family-run group, which launched its first site in Reading in 2021. The business now operates 10 practices nationwide, with an 11th set to open in Darlington this autumn.
Kristie Faulkner, Operations Director of Harrison Family Vets, added: “This was the first practice we opened in our home county of Yorkshire and, from day one, it was a success. We have built a great team in Leeds who are all experienced and very good at what they do, and this translates into the standard of service our clients enjoy. It’s been a great two years and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for us in Leeds.”
In addition to routine consultations, surgery, and dental care, the practice offers a Total Wellness Plan covering preventative healthcare, unlimited vet consultations, out-of-hours video vet access through VidiVet, and 25% off lifetime medication.
