I know some of you on here are very knowledgeable about all things veterinary. When I was at our usual practice yesterday I noticed that our vet was now wearing goggles as well as a face mask and apron. The consultations are still taking place in the car park so are open air. The clients are asked to wear face masks which I don't mind. But I was actually finding the vet quite difficult to understand. Are goggles a new requirement for vets now? Maybe someone might know on here?

Unfortunately  I have had to see a few vets recently and as a bate minimum they have been wearing gave masks as have I. Some have visors and masks some just visors so I imagine it's down to the practice and individual vets as to what they feel most comfortable  wearing .
Imo a mask is the bare minimum as it is in other industries. 
I can imagine for some it can be hard to understand  people with masks on and u may have to explain any difficulties as hard as that could be

Yes I'm sure you're right and I guess it is just a matter of personal choice. I was just concerned as to whether it's some kind of requirement from their union etc. In that case all practices might be still outside and kitted out in goggles (not visors) etc. Like you I'm fine with facemasks.

As the respiratory droplets containing coronavirus can enter via contact with the eye, wearing goggles protects people from that.

Yes I can understand that. I'm just asking if anyone on here knows if it's a new recommendation from the veterinary bodies (Royal College or BVA)

>I'm just asking if anyone on here knows if it's a new recommendation from the veterinary bodies (Royal College or BVA)

No, it isn't. Or if it is, it's not one that the practice where I work has been told about.

Thanks for that Jeangenie. I thought you  might know

As of the last time my girl was in for her surgery/teeth (beginning of the month) my vets/nurses were wearing plastic aprons and masks when they saw clients in the carpark outside.   And yes, they make a point of saying they are following RCVS etc rules (on their website).  And they hoped clients would wear masks and keep their distance.  No goggles - yet!

I'm wearing glasses when have to (rarely) go into a shop plus obviously mask.  Its not a big deal for possibility of a little protection. I'm not worried about me being ill but I am terrified of carrying it home to my vulnerable ill husband

I can see what you mean weimed. It must be a real worry. I was just interested to know whether goggle wearing - and I'm talking wrap-round models like the council weed-sprayers might wear, was particularly widespread amongst vets. And we are still having consultations outside in the car park. It looks like it's a matter of personal choice I think.

I don't think glasses will protect much because the droplets are so fine, they are the ones floating about in the air and will easily float behind the glasses - they're not necessarily projected from people you're talking to - they can be in the air from someone hours before.

Mask & DUST GOGGLES for me

Hell, why don't we just wear a space helmet while we're at it