A veterinary practice in Reading has expressed frustration at owners repeatedly failing to show up to appointments.

Vets4Pets, in Reading Retail Park, Tilehurst, have resorted to introducing a pre-payment scheme should the issue continue.

On Monday, 10 appointments were missed which could have gone to other patients – a total of 200 minutes.

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“This is happening more and more often so in a bid to stop this from becoming a regular occurrence we are unfortunately going to have to introduce a pre-payment scheme for consultations,” the practice posted on Facebook.

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“Should you, at any time make a booking and not show up, the next time you book you will be asked to pay for the consultation at the time of booking. 

“This will hopefully dissuade people from booking slots and not coming in, which will leave availability for other poorly patients. 

“Should you have a booking and you know you will be unable to make it, please call the clinic and at least let us know so the place can be offered to someone else.”