The first of seven programmes.

7.00am: the phone rings. An emergency call from a farmer in trouble with a cow calving. The start of another hectic day for George Rafferty, an energetic country vet in the Scottish Highlands. Further calls bring a sick labrador puppy, a wounded donkey and a final call to the much loved family pet of the local vicar. For the past 40 years, George has answered the veterinary needs of a community where his clients are also his friends. He survives with the help of his wife Jane, assistant Willie, a wee dram and compassion and wit.

(Book: "The Vet - Beyond the Surgery Door" is published to coincide with the series and is available at bookshops.)
(Feature: page 16)
(Ceefax Subtitles)