Noel Fitzpatrick, better known as the Supervet from the hit Channel 4 television series of the same name, has become one of the most recognizable and beloved veterinarians in the world. Viewers tune in weekly to watch Fitzpatrick and his team at Fitzpatrick Referrals work miracles on animals in need of specialized surgery and care. The Supervet documents the groundbreaking procedures performed at the state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, as well as the emotional journeys of the animals’ owners.
While fans love watching the show for its medical marvels and tear-jerking moments, many are curious about the setting of this exceptional veterinary practice. Where exactly is the Supervet based, and what can we learn about the facility that allows him to achieve the extraordinary? In this deep dive, we’ll explore the Surrey-based veterinary hospital that serves as the backdrop for this heartwarming show.
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Where Is The Supervet Based? Everything To Know
To understand the world-class facility that Fitzpatrick operates today, it’s important to understand its origins. Noel Fitzpatrick graduated from the University College Dublin School of Veterinary Medicine in 1990. After working in private small animal practices, he became interested in orthopedic surgery and went on to complete specialized training. In 1998, Fitzpatrick took the bold step of founding his own referral practice focused on orthopedics and neurosurgery, based in Eashing, Surrey.
Starting with just himself and two members of staff, Fitzpatrick Referrals has since grown into a bustling state-of-the-art animal hospital employing over 200 veterinary professionals. The early days involved long hours and financial struggles to get the practice off the ground. Twenty years later, that perseverance has paid off, as Fitzpatrick Referrals is now one of the foremost veterinary facilities in Europe.
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Fitzpatrick Referrals is located in the village of Eashing, near Godalming in Surrey. The county of Surrey blends rural and suburban landscapes, situated just southwest of London. The veterinary facility is on the outskirts of Eashing, adjacent to the River Wey.
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The hospital sits on a 2.5-acre site within a larger 20-acre estate. The grounds provide a tranquil setting for recovering patients. There are walking trails along the river and through wooded areas. The peaceful environment is designed to have a calming effect during the healing process.
For owners traveling to Fitzpatrick Referrals, the location has excellent transport links. The M25 London orbital motorway is close by, along with direct train lines into London from Godalming station. With easy access from London and surrounding areas, owners can readily visit their beloved pets undergoing treatment.
The original Fitzpatrick Referrals Hospital opened in 1998. In 2010, the current purpose-built premises were completed. This custom-designed building provides the ideal environment for practicing the most advanced veterinary medicine.
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The facilities include five operating theaters, allowing multiple specialized surgeries to take place simultaneously. There is an intensive care unit for round-the-clock monitoring of critical patients. Diagnostic imaging equipment includes two MRI scanners, CT scanning, and X-ray suites. Cutting-edge rehabilitation equipment such as water treadmills and hydrotherapy pools aid recovery.
The treatment areas are designed to minimize stress. For example, the radiology suite allows scans to be conducted with animals still under anesthesia from surgery. There are also quiet kennels and wards, so patients are not exposed to unnecessary noise and disruption.
With everything housed in one building, specialists from different disciplines can readily collaborate for the benefit of each patient. There are currently over 25 specialist vets working across orthopedics, neurology, oncology, dermatology, internal medicine, and diagnostic imaging. This depth of expertise under one roof allows for an integrated approach to even the most complex cases.
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The custom-designed facilities and specialist expertise on hand allow Fitzpatrick Referrals to undertake procedures not offered anywhere else in the world. Noel Fitzpatrick has pioneered many advanced techniques to save and improve the quality of life for animals with severe conditions.
One example is the custom-made prostheses and implants engineered at the on-site Fitzpatrick Referrals Orthopaedics. Patients have been given 3D-printed titanium skull implants, elbow replacements, and total hip replacements, allowing them active lives after surgery.
The neurology department carries out specialized procedures like disc replacements in dogs with acute spinal cord injuries. Oncology cases can access clinical trials and experimental treatments like intra-arterial chemotherapy for bone cancer. The pioneering procedures carried out routinely at Fitzpatrick Referrals highlight the incredible progress made in veterinary medicine.
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In addition to providing exceptional clinical services, Fitzpatrick Referrals is committed to advancing veterinary knowledge. There is an active clinical research program in areas like regenerative medicine, orthopedic surgery, and spinal treatment. Findings are published in prestigious veterinary journals to share with the global veterinary community.
The hospital also trains vets in specialized techniques through residency and internship programs. Nurses and students gain hands-on experience at the cutting edge of veterinary practice. The Supervet television program grew out of a documentary following the work of Fitzpatrick Referrals. Noel Fitzpatrick felt passionately about providing insight into new veterinary capabilities. The show’s success has helped inform the general public and give hope to many owners of severely ill pets.