Dr Hayley Appleby BVSc MRCVS CPEV

Hello, I’m Hayley, the Faithful Friends Mobile Vet. I live in County Durham with my husband Thomas, my two children, our two dogs, Beau the Border Collie and Gracie the Great Dane, and little rescue Guinea Pig Bailey. We also have 7 heavy horses as part of our family, made up of Cobs, Clydesdales and Shire Horses. We’re certainly a family of animal lovers and our life revolves around enjoying time with them and caring for them the very best we can.

I’ve never experienced a home without a dog, and was always taught that our animals are our equals, if not completely superior to us. Its no wonder I became a vet.

I grew up in Durham, and couldn’t think of a better place to live than the North East of England. From beautiful coastlines, to Durham Cathedral, there’s so much to love!

I graduated from Liverpool University in 2019, gaining my qualification as a Veterinary Surgeon – a lifelong dream of being able to work to help animals everyday achieved! Since then I have had the pleasure of working in a small animal hospital providing out of hours emergency care, several small animal general practices and also carrying out veterinary charity work.

I have gained lots of experience in the years since I qualified, helping lots of different beloved pets with all kinds of ailments. However, I’ve always had a particular passion for palliative veterinary care – my favourite appointments are always the golden oldies with the beautiful grey muzzles, because I know they are in their delicate years and therefore deserve all the love, attention and admiration they have earned throughout their life bringing happiness to their families.

I am also a Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Vet, earning the credentials ‘CPEV’, demonstrating that I have completed additional training in how to complete euthanasia in a way that ensures the most gentle and peaceful passing for pets, and a heartfelt experience for their caregivers.

When the time comes to say goodbye, although I will always remain professional, I’ll admit that I feel very emotional with each beloved pet I help to pass over. The role of a vet at such a time should never feel robotic or non-human – it is and forever will be a humbling experience to see the love and bond people have with their companions, and the significance letting them go has on our lives. That’s why I strive over and over to make sure I do my best in the final moments they have with us.