South East Veterinary Referrals (SEVR) in Sevenoaks has appointed internationally recognised veterinary ophthalmologist, Richard Everson as a director, as it expands into providing specialist eye care and surgery for dogs and cats across Kent and the South East.

Richard completed his specialist training at the Royal Veterinary College and, following a further year as a clinician there, spent seven years gaining extensive referral experience at a large multi-disciplinary referral hospital in Surrey. From the Sevenoaks hospital he now provides a full range of specialist ophthalmology services within an independent referral setting, including cataract surgery, corneal ulcer management, treatment of feline corneal sequestra, tear film disorders such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), and emergency ophthalmic cases.

Richard is a strong believer in the importance of early intervention. He said: “Eye problems in dogs and cats can progress rapidly. Cataracts linked to diabetes, deep corneal ulcers, or trauma can threaten sight within days. Until now, many complex cases in Kent had to be referred many miles away. SEVR provides a seamless pathway for assessment and surgery, whilst ensuring pets return to their first referral vet for follow-up care when appropriate.”

Supporting the expanded ophthalmology service, a high-spec Zeiss operating microscope has recently arrived at SEVR, enhancing specialist eye care for dogs and cats across the region. The advanced ophthalmic microscope, transported under controlled conditions due to its complexity, is now fully operational in SEVR’s dedicated ophthalmology theatre, supporting intricate procedures such as cataract removal, corneal ulcer repair and delicate corneal transpositions.

Francesca Taylor, SEVR’s referrals director, added: “Our service complements local practices. Cases are managed efficiently, communication is prompt, and patients are returned to the referring vet for ongoing care, strengthening long-term client relationships.”

SEVR is the South East’s only independent specialist-led veterinary hospital and has an established reputation for its neurology service, led by Dr Rodolfo Cappello, which has performed over 220 MRI scans and more than 100 spinal surgeries since opening in December 2024. The ophthalmology service mirrors this model, offering direct access to specialists, rapid reporting and continuity of care.

One recent case saw English Bulldog, Winston, referred to SEVR with a deep corneal ulcer and a KCS diagnosis. Richard said: “The ulcer involved approximately 80% of the corneal depth, placing the eye at risk of perforation. I performed a corneo-conjunctival transposition in our dedicated ophthalmology theatre. Winston has made a full recovery and is responding well to ongoing KCS treatment, to reduce the risk of future ulcers, and his owners are delighted with his treatment.”

For referral discussions or more information, email ophthalmology@southeastvetreferrals.com or info@southeastvetreferrals.com, or visit www.southeastvetreferrals.com.
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