Dr Andre Buthe Equine Clinic Ltd is a limited company registered in England with registered number 07021105.
Registered address: c/o CBHC Suite 3 Steeple House, 1st Floor, Church Lane, Chelmsford, Essex. CM1 1NH
Introduction
This sets out the terms of business upon which we, Dr Andre Buthe Equine Clinic Ltd (“DABECL”), will provide equine veterinary services. By instructing us to perform services, or by purchasing or ordering goods, you are making an offer and confirming that you agree to these terms of business. If we accept your instruction, purchase, or order, a legally binding contract is made between us and you.
Our Commitment to You
We aim to provide you with a first-class service and to provide your equine with the highest standard of veterinary treatment and care.
Fees
All professional fees, consumables, and charges for drugs and services are subject to VAT at the current rate.
Fees are determined by:
- Time spent on a case
- Level of intensity of investigation and treatment
- Expertise required
- Technical equipment used
- Cost of drugs, materials, and consumables
Any travel may be charged at business class rates.
If you believe you qualify for a VAT exemption, please inform us in writing before any work is carried out.
Estimates
Veterinary care often does not follow a predictable course. Therefore, costs may vary.
- For complex or costly treatments, we will endeavour to discuss them with you.
- Written estimates can be provided upon request.
- We will try to inform you of significant cost changes as they arise.
- Please note: unexpected problems or complications may increase costs.
Invoicing and Payment Terms
- An itemised invoice will be produced at the conclusion of investigation/treatment.
- Registered clients are normally invoiced after each visit via email.
- Payment terms: 14 days from invoice date unless agreed otherwise in writing.
- Interest on overdue accounts: 8% per month
- Late payment service charge: £35/month
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Non-payment may result in:
- Referral to a debt collection agency
- Court action (with all associated costs payable by you)
For non-insured horses, a deposit may be requested at the time of examination.
International clients must check for and cover their own bank's international wire fees.
Methods of Payment
We accept the following:
- Cards: Mastercard, Visa, American Express
- BACS: Bank details available upon request or on invoice
- Cash
Inability to Pay
If you expect difficulty in settling your account, contact us as soon as possible.
- In exceptional circumstances, part-payment or instalment plans may be arranged at the discretion of the Practice Manager and must be in writing.
- Missing an instalment results in the full amount becoming due immediately.
- Ongoing/future treatment costs are not covered by existing payment plans and must be paid immediately.
Equine Insurance
We strongly recommend insuring your equine.
- Inform your insurer as soon as you know the nature of the condition or treatment.
- In emergencies or first-opinion cases, contact your insurer ASAP.
- Most insurers require a claim form signed by the attending vet, plus an invoice.
Note:
- Invoices are sent to you (email or post); it is your responsibility to ensure your insurer receives them.
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We may accept direct payments from insurers, subject to:
- Signed claim form
- Insurer agreement to pay us directly
However, you are responsible for:
- Policy excess
- Non-covered costs (e.g., hospitalisation, postage)
- Fees above the insured amount
- Any rejected claims
We may also charge for insurance-related admin and reports.
Owner / Agent
If you act as an authorised agent for the animal’s owner:
- You confirm you have authority to engage our services and share owner data.
- If you lack authority, you agree to indemnify DABECL and are personally liable for fees.
If the client is a company or legal entity, DABECL may pursue payment from individual managers as primary obligators.
If the contracting party denies ownership of the horse, it does not release them from liability.
Passports
- All equines must have a valid passport.
- It must accompany the horse and be shown at the examination.
- Section IX should be completed to confirm whether the horse is intended for human consumption.
- If not completed, we reserve the right to sign it as not intended for human consumption.
- In the absence of a passport, medication records will be retained and provided on the invoice.
Medication
- We use veterinary-licensed products.
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If unavailable, we may use:
- Products licensed for other species
- Human medications
Use of off-licence medication is based on:
- Veterinary knowledge
- Assessment of risks and benefits
Please speak with a vet if you have concerns.
Ownership of Records
All records, images, and tissue samples remain the property of DABECL.
They may be used for:
- Clinical research
- Veterinary education
- Publications or presentations
All data will be fully anonymised.
We do not guarantee images will be retained after examination.
Data Protection
We take client confidentiality seriously.
- No personal data will be shared without consent unless required on humane/welfare grounds.
- Please keep us updated with correct personal information.
We may collect:
- Your name and contact details
- Your equine’s details
- Previous vet details
You have the right to access your personal data under the Data Protection Act 2018.
Feedback
We welcome feedback on our services. Please address it to the senior clinician in charge of your equine.
Complaints
If you are unhappy, please:
- Speak with us promptly.
- If needed, submit a written complaint to the Practice Manager.
- Disputes about invoice fees should be made in writing to our Credit Controller within 7 days of receiving the invoice.
Additions and Variations
No changes to these conditions are valid unless:
- Agreed in writing
- Signed by a director
No employee or contractor can alter these terms.
Statutory Rights
These terms do not affect your statutory rights.