There's a new vet in Barleybridge, and before long the usually calm practice is rife with anxiety and tension...

There's trouble afoot in Barleybridge. The vets' practice, which normally runs so smoothly, is disrupted by the new locum, Dan, who seems to be annoying just about everyone with his abrupt manner and unreasonable demands. And when he succeeds in losing an important client through his arrogant attitude, the wives connected to the practice are determined that something has to be done.

But Kate, who works at the practice, finds she rather likes Dan's no-nonsense approach, despite what everyone thinks of him. Then, when she is suddenly confronted by a devastating tragedy at home, it is Dan, with a sad secret of his own, who helps her come to terms with her new situation...