AFTER almost 50 years looking after all sizes and temperaments of animals - and birds - in the area, Jonathan Wood has retired from the practice his father, Roy, established in 1953.

Then, the desk Roy used in the mornings for bill writing and such became his operating table later in the day.

Two years later he moved the practice to Barnstaple Cross. Jonathan joined his father in the early 1970s and has continued to work tirelessly to provide care and treatment to all the animals and keep the business prospering.

Later, a specialised veterinary surgery was built and that and the house were separated. Stables was recently added.

As well as the surgery evolving and growing in all aspects, Jonathan has witnessed many changes and innovations in Veterinary Medicine, often saying he wondered what his father would think of the surgery now.

In its announcement of his retirement, the surgery says Jonathan has enjoyed a full and varied veterinary career, specialising in orthopaedics, loving his equine work, but primarily enjoying being a mixed animal vet in this wonderful community.

It added that he has helped, treated and saved many, many animals during his career and has always been there to help any patient, client or colleague however he can, whatever time of day, often missing or altering family plans to do so.

It adds: “The team here at the surgery will truly miss Jonathan, his humour, dedication and knowledge will all be missed but we are determined to honour his hard work by continuing the culture and care he promoted in the practice.

“We are sure you will agree with us in wishing him a long and happy retirement. As many of you know him personally, you will know he is not the type to want a fuss over his retirement, hence the sudden announcement with no warning.

“Jonathan knows that the team running the practice will make sure you will all continue to receive the same high level of treatment and care as in the past. Enjoy your well-earned retirement Mr Wood, we will all miss you.”

Jonathan Wood Veterinary Surgeons is proud to be an RCVS accredited practice under the practice standards scheme, and approved training centre.

In 2013 Lizzie Edwards joined the practice, later buying into it alongside Jonathan and Caroline.

Caroline retired from the practice in March, and the business became part of the VetPartners family.