A little about us

Our History

William Penhale opened his veterinary practice in Stibb Cross just 10 miles from Holsworthy, in 1840. The business was renamed Penbode Veterinary Group in 1985 after the death of the last member of the Penhale family, but from 1840 to the current day we have been working to provide the best level of veterinary care possible for the communities of Devon and Cornwall.

William Penhale’s third son Richard, was a Captain in the army during World War I who saw action on the Mesopotamian front and cared for the many thousands of horses shipped over there. He was mentioned in despatches and was awarded the Military Order of the British Empire on his demobilization. 

Our connection to the local area has developed alongside many fascinating characters, such as Pamela Penhale, who married into the family and became the practice’s first female vet, after becoming one of the first female students admitted to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 1943. Pamela passed away in 2006, but during her career she pioneered many innovative procedures, including early use of caesarean sections in sheep.

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Us now

Over the generations we have continued that pioneering spirit to adjust to evolving client needs and advancing veterinary knowledge. We have state-of-the-art veterinary technology and equipment in purpose-built surgeries and wards where you can be sure your animals receive treatment and care at the highest possible standard from our 24-hour teams.

All of our trusted and experienced vets work within their own areas of expertise and undertake continuous professional development. This means that your animals will always be treated by a vet dedicated to that species, whether you are looking for veterinary care for pets, farm animals or horses.

With our various branches based in Holsworthy, Stratton, Bradworthy and Camelford. Our team available at all times on every day of the year, you know you are never far from the dedicated and passionate Penbode Vets team.