Avoca Drive Animal Hospital

21/11/2024

Toilet Training Your Puppy the Fear Free Way🐾🐾🤩❤🐹
Toilet training doesn’t have to involve stress or fear. Using only positive reinforcement techniques, you can teach your puppy to go outside without damaging the trust between you. Here are 5 tips for toilet training the Fear Free way:
1. Create a Consistent Routine: Take your puppy outside regularly, especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement: Immediately reward your puppy with treats, praise, or affection when they toilet outside.
3. Designate a Potty Spot: Choose a specific spot outdoors to help your puppy learn where to go.
4. Supervise Indoors: Watch for signs that your puppy needs to go and guide them to the designated spot.
5. Stay Patient and Consistent: Accidents are part of the process—stay calm, avoid punishment, and reward good behavior.
Toilet training your puppy the Fear Free way helps you build trust and a strong relationship. For the best results, seek guidance from a professional trainer at a Fear Free accredited veterinary hospital. 🐾❤🐹

21/11/2024

What is FeLV?
FeLV is a common viral infection that primarily affects cats, attacking their immune systems and making them more susceptible to other infections, cancers, and blood disorders. The virus is typically transmitted through close contact with an infected cat, such as through saliva, urine, and blood. This means that cats who engage in fights, share food or water bowls, or spend time outdoors in high-risk environments are at greater risk of contracting FeLV.
While some cats may live with the virus for years without showing symptoms, others may experience rapid deterioration in their health. Unfortunately, there is no cure for FeLV, but there is vaccination and with early detection and appropriate care, many affected cats can live relatively normal lives.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Keep your cat safe with a FeLV vaccine and other essential preventative care. Contact us at Avoca Drive Animal Hospital to learn more and schedule a vaccination.

😸🐾❤🐈

21/11/2024

How to Prevent Puppies from Jumping
Training your puppy not to jump up on people is crucial. If this behaviour isn't controlled when they are young and manageable, it can become a nightmare when they grow into adults weighing over 30kg. This not only becomes a hassle but can also be quite dangerous.
At our puppy school, we make training easy and effective. Our methods ensure that your puppy learns to greet people politely without jumping up. By starting early, you can prevent future problems and enjoy a well-behaved adult dog.
We are proud to run a 'fear free' puppy school and are the only fully fear free accredited hospital in Australia. Join our classes and see the difference professional training can make!
Call us today! Next class starts Saturday!

Avoca Drive Animal Hospital is your pet's favourite place for Fear Free vet visits!

20/11/2024

🎄 Get Your Pet's Needs Sorted Before the Silly Season! 🐾
The holiday season is almost here, and with it comes the busy time when many veterinary clinics close for the Christmas break. 🌟 Don’t wait until the last minute—make sure your pet is all set and healthy before the rush!
✅ Appointments are limited between now and Christmas, so now’s the time to book your pet’s check-up, vaccinations, or any treatment they may need. Whether it’s an annual health check, dental care, or medication refills, we recommend securing your spot ASAP to ensure your furry friend is in tip-top shape for the holidays!
🎅🏼 Planning to board your pet while you're away?
Make sure their vaccination records and overall health are up to date if they’ll be staying in kennels or with a pet sitter. Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations, and ensuring your pet is healthy and up to date will give you peace of mind while you enjoy your break. 🐾
⏰ Don’t miss out! With limited availability, we encourage you to call or book online today to reserve your appointment before we’re fully booked.
As the Central Coast’s only fully Fear-Free accredited veterinary hospital, Avoca Drive Animal Hospital is the best choice to take the stress out of the silly season for both you and your pet. We’ll ensure your pet’s care is gentle, compassionate, and stress-free—so everyone can enjoy a happy, healthy holiday. 🐶🎄🐱

19/11/2024

🐾 Why Puppy School is Essential for Your Pup's Development (4-16 Weeks) 🐾
The first few months of your puppy's life are critical for shaping their future behavior. 4 to 16 weeks is a special period when your puppy’s brain is developing rapidly and they are like little sponges, learning everything around them. During this window, proper socialization and training are key to ensuring your puppy grows into a confident, well-behaved dog.
This is the perfect time to enroll your puppy in puppy school, where they can learn essential skills and safely interact with other dogs, people, and environments. Without the right experiences during this critical time, your puppy may develop behavioral issues such as fear, anxiety, or aggression, which can be difficult to correct later on.
At Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, we understand the importance of this sensitive developmental period and offer Fear-Free Certified puppy training to guide your puppy in the best possible way. Our expert trainers provide positive, stress-free lessons that set your pup up for success in their adult life.

18/11/2024

🦠 Fly Strike in Dogs: What You Need to Know 🐾
Fly strike isn't just for sheep—dogs can suffer from it too, especially on the delicate skin of their ears. This painful condition happens when flies lay eggs on an open wound, and the larvae cause sores that can become irritated and infected. If you spot red, raw, or oozing sores on your dog's ears, your pup may have fly strike.
Treatment:
1. Remove flies by bringing your dog indoors.
2. Clean the sores with a veterinary-approved antiseptic.
3. Protect the area using an E-collar to prevent scratching.
4. See your vet for antibiotics and pain relief—most dogs need professional care to heal properly.
Since the sores are painful, your dog will likely resist treatment, making it important to consult a Fear-Free Veterinarian. At Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, we’re the Central Coast's only fully accredited Fear-Free clinic, ensuring a calm, stress-free experience for your dog while they get the care they need.
If your dog is suffering from fly strike, don’t wait! Contact us today. 🐶❤️

08/11/2024

Understanding Dog Dementia: Canine Cognitive Decline with Age
As dogs age, many experience cognitive decline, or “dog dementia” (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction). This condition, similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, affects memory, learning, and behavior, and is common in senior dogs.
Signs of Dog Dementia
• Disorientation: Confusion or getting lost in familiar places.
• Sleep Changes: Sleeping more during the day and being restless at night.
• Decreased Socialization: Less interest in play or interaction.
• House Training Issues: Accidents or incontinence.
• Anxiety: Increased pacing, agitation.
A Common Mistake
Many owners mistakenly think their dog is being disobedient when they show signs of dementia. However, symptoms like confusion, accidents, and anxiety are often due to cognitive decline, not bad behavior. Punishing a dog with CCD can make things worse, worsening anxiety and confusion.
What You Can Do
Early intervention can improve your dog’s quality of life. If you notice these signs, consult your vet. Management strategies may include:
• Medication: Helps slow cognitive decline.
• Diet: Nutritional supplements to support brain health.
• Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog with puzzle toys and training.
• Routine: A consistent daily schedule reduces anxiety.
• Environment: Make your home easier and calmer for your dog.
Conclusion
If your dog is showing signs of cognitive decline, reach out to your vet for guidance. With the right support, your dog can continue to enjoy their golden years with comfort and happiness. 🐾💛

07/11/2024

Is It Okay to Let My Dog Drink from Puddles?
As a loving pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend, but one common question arises: Is it okay to let my dog drink from puddles? The answer is a resounding no. Puddles can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites, particularly Leptospira, the bacteria responsible for leptospirosis, which is present in the Sydney region.
Leptospirosis is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that can affect your dog’s kidneys, liver, and other organs. Symptoms can vary, but here are some key signs to watch for:
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to bring your dog to a fear-free veterinarian who can provide prompt diagnosis and care.
Prevention is always better than cure. Keep your dog away from puddles and standing water to minimize the risk of leptospirosis. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help ensure your pet remains healthy and happy. Your dog relies on you to keep them safe—don’t take unnecessary risks!

05/11/2024

At Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, we use pheromones to help calm your pets during stressful situations, such as veterinary visits, car rides, or meeting new pets. These synthetic pheromones mimic natural calming signals, promoting relaxation and reducing fear and anxiety. Pheromones are safe and effective, and we see noticeable improvements in pet behaviour daily. Visit us today for a free in-hospital sample and experience the calming benefits for your pet. Call us to book an appointment and let us help your pet feel more at ease.

31/10/2024

29/10/2024

"Fear Free" focuses on creating positive experiences for pets by using gentle techniques and building trust with them, while using calming pheromones, treats, comfortable handling, and a slower pace to make sure your pet feels safe and relaxed. We won't force your pet or push your pet beyond their comfort zone.

If your pet has had a bad experience in the past or dislikes going to vet, come and try the "FEAR FREE" way.
Your pet's health and emotional well-being is our top priority.

Have you ever dreaded going to the vet, knowing that your pet is going to be stressed out, or not behave as well as you would like?Good news! With Fear Free,...

21/10/2024

Dalmation Day! Bowie and Calvin are some of our favorite patients😍Pictured here with their vet Dr Nyssa and their lovely mum Claire. More of our special patients and clients that made our accreditation possible with their generosity of time and patience.Thank you Claire!

11/10/2024

Happy Vet Nurse / Technician Day.

01/09/2024

Vaccine Update! 🐾

Great news! We now have cat vaccines in stock. To ensure your beautiful kitties stay healthy, we’ll be sending out an automated email with all the details regarding these vaccines.

Please note that our supply is limited, so we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to book an appointment. Let’s work together to make sure your furry friends get the protection they need. ❤

To book, please call us today at 4365 1086.

30/08/2024

We would like to take this time to thank our beautiful clients and their gorgeous doggos in helping us achieved our goal to be the first Fear Free accredited clinic in Australia. Your kindness, consideration and care is very much appreciated! This achievement would not have been possible without your support and understanding, so thank you! ❤

28/08/2024

The best way to handle a trip to the vet? Snuggle up in the nurse's jumper all day, soaking up endless cuddles and kisses 😘