A dedicated hibernation centre has opened for tortoises requiring a safe place to spend the winter months.

The facility operates within a £3.5 million animal hospital in Crawley, operated by Portland Vets.

Situated in the basement, the hibernation unit can accommodate up to 42 tortoises in temperature-regulated chambers, with each creature receiving one-to-one attention throughout the entire hibernation period.

Laura Sulsh, the vet who conceived the idea five years ago at the East Grinstead site, explained that tortoise hibernation presents challenges, especially for juveniles, senior tortoises, or those with health issues. Before going into hibernation, every tortoise undergoes a full health assessment, weight measurement, and hydration assessment. They receive worming treatment when necessary and are given baths, as part of an individualised preparation process. Monitoring continues throughout the hibernation period, ensuring they emerge in good condition, actively growing, and ready to eat.

Sarah Pearce, the branch manager, indicated that this hibernation service is just one example of the specialist medical care the hospital offers. She noted that the Crawley site allows them to combine cutting-edge veterinary care with dedicated services for exotic creatures. The tortoise facility demonstrates how they support pet owners from across the region through this unique offering, while also providing referral services to veterinary practices throughout the South East.

The Crawley site, which took five years to plan, additionally offers advanced imaging and surgical procedures including keyhole surgery, CT scanning, as well as treatment for cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and other exotic animals.

Portland Vets, founded in 2004 by vet Jenny Christopherson and her husband George, functions as an independent practice and belongs to the XLVets professional network.

Mr Christopherson stated that they are proud of what has been achieved at the Crawley site, and this success belongs to their vets, nurses, and support staff who each bring specialist knowledge and commitment.

The hospital features two operating theatres, dedicated inpatient wards, and purpose-built housing for exotic animals.

Sarah Pearce noted that their organisation employs more than 15 full-time equivalent veterinarians across their four sites and are currently recruiting additional veterinary professionals at their Crawley site as it grows.