A long-established veterinary practice in Shanklin is set to close later this year, with owner Olivier Ghesquiere announcing the difficult decision in an emotional message to clients that has prompted an outpouring of support from pet owners across the Isle of Wight.
Posting on the Isle of Wight Community Information Facebook group, Mr Ghesquiere confirmed that Ghesvet will stop treating small animals at some point in September, with equine services coming to an end after the breeding and scanning season.
Explaining his decision, Mr Ghesquiere said ongoing shoulder problems had played a part, but added that he had also become exhausted by what he described as years of criticism from some fellow veterinary professionals, who he said believed he was working below modern standards.
He maintained that his approach was simply ‘old-fashioned ‘.
Mr Ghesquiere said he informed all veterinary practices on the Isle of Wight of his decision around 3 weeks ago and offered them the opportunity to take over the practice. However, he said he had received no response.
Acknowledging the impact the closure will have on clients, he warned that many pet owners may find it difficult to register with another veterinary practice and encouraged them to begin making enquiries as soon as possible.
Ghesvet has served the Isle of Wight community for many years and has built a loyal client base, particularly among owners looking for traditional veterinary care. The independent practice has provided both companion animal and equine services from its base on Orchardleigh Road.
In his message, Mr Ghesquiere thanked clients for the trust they had placed in him over the years and said:
“My shoulders are letting me down, but I am mainly tired of the constant criticsim from some other vets on the Island and farther, for years, for working below standards when im only old fashioned.
“I thank you all very much for your confidence over the years.
“I will miss you enormosly.”
The announcement has attracted hundreds of reactions and comments from clients expressing their sadness at the news, thanking Mr Ghesquiere for his dedication and wishing him well for the future.
This is a great shame, Olivier is just a normal straight talking caring vet who does not conform to the money grabbing style of the modern vet!!! I have always found him to be very professional and caring. I wish you all the best for the future Olivier, you will be greatly missed.
A wonderful Vet.sadly the Veterinary system has now become a money making business and agents of Big Pharma rather than a caring profession with the “old fashioned” vets like Olivier Ghesquiere >thanks for all your care and attention to Gizmo
Yes, totally agree, the care has gone and its all about the money! Thank you Olivier for everything you did for Jay my black Labrador and Ozzy my beautiful tri coloured Collie. Hope you have a lovely peaceful retirement.
One of the best Vets I’ve ever met, it’s been an absolute pleasure to take my animals to this gentleman over the past 20 years, he shows empathy and compassion. He will be sorely missed by the whole community.
Wishing him all the best in his health is wealth and all the best in the future thank you Oliver
Such a shame, always cared for our animals much better than any other vet we had previously visited with them. Never about the money, always about the care! Will be missed greatly, and now all the other vets will be rubbing their hands in glee!
Really sad to hear this news. Really sad. All the best, Olivier.
We will miss you so much and thankyou deeply for all the fantastic care you gave to Oscar and all the librella injections! You made such a huge difference to his last years and when it was his time you came out over Christmas so quickly to help him! You really are the best vet that anyone could wish for! You really will be so sadly missed!
Can’t believe professionals have acted in this manner towards you our beloved Labrador of 14 years was sadly put down by Olivier at our home with the respect and dignity she had earned through devotion to our family Mr Olivier stayed with us and didn’t rush off like many vets would’ve done We can only thank you for your service to us and your profession you will be missed and hard to replace if at all