Milan Vets will continue with its vet services into the 2026 until a suitable solution is found.
Earlier this week, Milan Vets which is now owned by Independent Vetcare Limited, announced it would be ceasing its farm vet services at the end of the month.
The news resulted in an outcry of concern and anger from the farming community.
Continue Services
In a letter to farmers, Milan said: “Following our letter dated 10 November 2025 regarding the closure of Milan farm services from 30 November, we have listened to your feedback and understand your concerns about ongoing care for your animals and capacity restrictions from other providers on the island.
The welfare of your animals remains a priority, and we are committed to finding suitable, alternative, sustainable solutions for clients. During this time, we will continue to provide veterinary support to our existing registered clients.
This means farm services will continue from 1 December, and we will provide a further update early in the New Year.
We would like to reiterate that the decision to close services was not taken lightly and we do understand the impact the closure will have on the farming community, but we do hope to be able to confirm alternative, suitable solutions early in the New Year.
Ensuring that no client is left without access to veterinary care is paramount. We hope this interim commitment offers some reassurance while arrangements progress.”
Outcry of Concern
Prior to the news of the extension, Paul Fletcher, chairman of Fatstock Marketing Association said: “The IOM Fatstock Marketing Association which represents livestock producers on the island were made aware on Monday of the impending decision by Milan Veterinary Practice to withdraw the delivery of large animal practice in support of the Manx Farming industry.
“The FMA is most concerned about the decision and also the lack of notice which is causing anxiety and stress to many of the islands farmers. The industry recognises the amazing support provided to farmers by the Milan vets and all the other private vet practices on the island alike.
“Vet services support farmers in the care and welfare of their livestock, proactive management practices and advice, support with farm health plans for farm assurance and emergency cover 24/7. As such the contribution of our islands vets cannot be overstated. The FMA is in communication with DEFA and other parties to attempt to reach a successful resolution.”
Caused Alarm
Echoing the concern was the Manx National Farmers Union, it said: “The decision by Milan Veterinary Practice management to remove farm services at short notice has understandably caused alarm amongst our Membership, and it is a matter the Manx National Farmers Union are taking very seriously. Our primary concern is the welfare and ongoing needs of livestock on the Island. The impact that removal of services from Milan at short notice, is not to be underestimated.
“All our Island vets and practice staff provide an exceptional and vital service, prioritising animal needs, and providing the necessary compliance and business support which is essential to Manx farming. They are extremely highly valued by the industry which is reflected in most of the responses to the survey so far. We would also commend the DEFA Chief Government Veterinary Officer, Dr Amy Beckett, other industry representatives, and the MSPCA, who have responded swiftly and are working tirelessly to seek a solution.
“Our short survey for all farm business and smallholders is already demonstrating that a significant number of farms will be affected. Many have been loyal Milan customers over the years, and some will have recently transferred to Milan Veterinary Practice after the recent expansion of farm services offered. The MNFU has written to IVC Evidensia UK, as the owner of Milan, highlighting the animal welfare and farm business risks, and requesting that they revise the decision to end farm services on 30th November. It is our hope that they will reconsider the timeframes if they are to prevent an immediate animal welfare and farm crisis.”
