AN ACOCKS Green vet has hung up his scrubs and stethoscope after nearly four decades tending to sick and injured pets.
Robin Bone, clinical director at 608 Vets, which has practices in Solihull, Bentley Heath and Acocks Green, has retired after a 37-year career.
The 62-year-old joined 608 in January 1985 and became a partner in 1991 until the practice joined Linnaeus in 2018.
Robin spent many of his years with 608 at its Acocks Green surgery and has seen tens of thousands of patients, including removing a wide variety of bric-a-brac from dogs stomachs.
He said: “When I first joined 608 in 1985 it was a mixed practice and there were five of us on the small animal side.
“Our weekends started on Saturday at 9am and went through to Monday at 7pm, including covering nights, without a break.
“Thankfully, this has improved over the years and there is now a much better work/life balance.
“Acocks Green has always had a loyal group of clients and it has been rewarding to try to provide them with the best veterinary care possible.”
The Solihull resident’s love of animals began at an early age, turning his passion into a career – with a particular interest in reptiles.
Robin added: “Being a vet has been such a great career, despite the long hours and some stressful, challenging situations and cases.
“I have always enjoyed being involved in the management of the practice, too. It added variety to my day to deal with other issues such as supporting veterinary colleagues, surgery property improvements, health and safety, ideas for new equipment and nurse training – I was an assessor for many years.”
Robin is now planning a slightly more relaxing time in retirement, spending more time with his wife Alison and their four children, gardening, travelling and enjoying music.
