Albury Animal Hospital

29/06/2024

🌟 Mable 🌟

Mable was looking a bit remorseful after being worried that she had eaten a hearing aid battery. 😔 We did some X-rays which put her family at ease, with no batteries seen in the images. 🩻 Mable was sent home to relax after some cuddles with nurse Miranda. 🥰

28/06/2024

🌟 Fun Fact Friday! 🌟

Did you know❓
Cats typically have 24 whiskers on their muzzle, evenly distributed with twelve on each side, arranged in four horizontal rows of three. 🐱
While some cats can have more than 24, the total number should always be even.

27/06/2024

🌟 Fred and George 🌟

Handsome duo Fred and George visited us for their vaccinations this week. They were purr-fectly behaved! 😻

Is your kitty up to date with their vaccinations? Call and speak to one of our friendly nurses if you are unsure. 📞❤

27/06/2024

🌟 Heard of our BraveDogs program? 🌟

We offer GP level behavioural consultations that dive deeper into a understanding and supporting your pets behaviour - after all their behaviour is just telling us how the feel. Our BraveDogs program will reflect on the behaviours we see and put them into context - support your pet with appropriate medications if needed and combine this with behavioural training with our mates at the Dog Education Centre.

We are in your support corner.

So how do you recognise anxiety and fear in pets? They might show some or multiple of the following clinical signs:

1. Trembling or shaking
2. Excessive panting or drooling
3. Hiding or trying to escape
4. Vocalizing (whining, meowing, barking)
5. Pacing or restlessness
6. Dilated pupils
7. Raised hackles (fur standing on end)
8. Refusal to eat or drink
9. Increased heart rate
10. Avoiding eye contact

Book an appointment with Dr. Sally to start your supported behavioural journey with your dog today.

📞 6040 6995

26/06/2024

🌟 NEW arthritis treatment for dogs 🌟

We have been seeing amazing results so far! This new innovative therapy is called monoclonal antibody. It is a biological therapy that works like your dog's immune system. It targets and neutralises a protein that stimulates pain in patients with arthritis! 🎯

Through this action one subcutaneous injection alleviates pain for a full month. This new treatment is extremely safe and can be used alongside other common therapies e.g. vaccines, parasite control, antibiotics etc.

Unfortunately, dogs can't tell us when they are in pain so it's important to look out for signs of arthritis such as:
🐾 reduced mobility
🐾 difficulty in rising and standing
🐾 difficulty jumping on furniture or climbing stairs

If you have noticed any of these signs in your dog please call us to book an appointment. 📞
This new medication will make a big improvement to their quality of life. ❤

25/06/2024

🌟 DIY Dog Enrichment Toy! 🌟

Are you looking for a fun and easy way to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated? Check out this DIY dog enrichment toy using just a muffin tin and some tennis balls! 🐶

🔵 What You'll Need:
✅ An old muffin tin
✅ Tennis balls
✅ Your dog's favourite treats or kibble

🔵 Steps:
1. Place a treat or a few pieces of kibble in each cup of the muffin tin.
2. Cover each treat-filled cup with a tennis ball.
3. Put the muffin tin on the floor and watch your pup have a blast figuring out how to remove the balls to get to the treats!

🔵 Why It Works:
This simple activity engages your dog's problem-solving skills and provides both mental and physical exercise. It's a great way to beat boredom and keep your pup happy and healthy! 🐕💡

24/06/2024

🌟 Staff Training 🌟

Please note that we will be CLOSED tomorrow 26th June from 1-4pm for staff training.

📞 Our phones will be diverted to our own after hours mobile number, so you will be able to call the hospital and leave us a message.
🚨 If your pet requires urgent assistance, please follow the prompts and your call will be answered by our after-hours emergency service.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, however it is vital that we keep up to date with the best veterinary care for your pets. 😀
Thank you ❤️

24/06/2024

You have no EYE-dear 👁️ 😝 how thrilled we are to be able to host Veterinary Eye Specialist, Dr Chloe Hardman so she can see pets on the border. Melbourne EyeVet. Well done team ❤️

23/06/2024

🌟 Welcome to Puppy Preschool! 🌟

A collaborative teaching approach with Albury Animal Hospital supporting the main stars, the dog trainers from The Dog Education Centre. 🐾🎓

We have surveyed puppy pre-school participants and found overwhelmingly that participants want to know how to train their dog to set them up for success! We have listened and there is an 85% focus on training, including lifetime access to The Dog Education Centres online training academy. Puppies between the ages of 8-16 weeks of age are in their critical socialisation period where they start to explore the world around them. Puppy preschool is designed to help these pups develop resilience and confidence in the world around them.
It is as important to your puppy's long term health as vaccinations and good nutrition! It can positively influence how your puppy will interact with other dogs and people for the rest of their life. ❤️

Our Puppy Pre-school is a 4 week course, which unlike traditional training classes, is specifically designed for pups between 8-16 weeks of age. It's also a perfect time for your puppy to start developing a positive relationship with their Veterinary team and the sights, smells and sounds of a vet hospital. Dogs who have attended our puppy classes just love coming back!

🔵 What you need to know:

Do's :
🔹Your pup must have had their first vaccination.
🔹Puppies must be between 8-16 weeks of age when the course commences.
🔹Strictly one handler (must be over 18 years of age)
🔹Bring high value meaty treats
🔹Do your online academy module to be prepared for the class

Don'ts :
🔸No retractable leads
🔸Don't feed your pup for a few hours before the class so they are motivated by the treats.

For more information please call us on (02) 6040 6995 📞 or send an email to [email protected]

23/06/2024

🌟 Essential Oils Warning 🌟

With winter upon us, our pets are spending more time indoors and we are closing our windows and doors to retain heat.
As a result, our pets are being exposed to higher concentrations of essential oil particles in the air. 🐱❗️

Essential oils can be particularly toxic to cats, as they lack the essential enzymes in their liver to metabolise and eliminate the chemical compounds.

If pet parents wish to burn or vaporise essential oils in their homes, it is always best to use dilute solutions in well-ventilated spaces. 🕯

22/06/2024

🌟 Caturday Quote 🌟

"Cats seem to go on the principle that it never does any harm to ask for what you want.” – Joseph Wood Kru"Cats seem to go on the principle that it never does any harm to ask for what you want.” – Joseph Wood Kru ❤️🐈

20/06/2024

🌟 International Take Your Dog to Work Day 🌟

International Take Your Dog To Work Day is a powerful way to boost your mental health. Studies show that pets in the workplace reduce stress and anxiety quite dramatically and that this has an effect on productivity.

Things to remember:
🍵 A water bowl
🐕 A leash (for a lunchtime walk)
🚮 Take your pooch outside for regular toilet breaks and have plenty of poo bags on board
🐶 Ensure that all dogs are well socialised and that they are leashed when introducing them to each other in the office

Have a wuff-ly day! 🐶🐾

20/06/2024

🌟 How to Choose the Right Pet Insurance for Your Best Friend 🌟

Choosing the right pet insurance can be overwhelming, but it's one of the best ways to ensure your pets get the care they deserve. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Understand Your Pet's Needs 🩺 - Different breeds and ages have different health concerns. Research common issues for your pet's breed and choose a plan that covers these.
2. Compare Coverage Plans 📋 - Look at what each plan covers: accidents, illnesses, routine care, hereditary conditions and more. Make sure it aligns with your pet’s needs.
3. Check the Exclusions 🚫 - Be aware of what’s NOT covered. Some plans exclude pre-existing conditions, certain treatments or specific conditions common in particular breeds.
4. Consider the Cost 💰 - Find a balance between premium costs and coverage benefits. Remember, cheaper isn’t always better if it doesn’t cover essential treatments.
5. Read Reviews & Ask for Recommendations ⭐ - See what other pet owners have to say. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider.
6. Look at the Reimbursement Policy 💵 - Understand how and when you’ll be reimbursed. Some plans offer direct vet payment, while others reimburse you after you pay the vet.
7. Evaluate the Deductibles and Limits 🔍 - Check the annual or per-incident deductible and any caps on payouts. Ensure these fit your budget and your pet’s potential healthcare needs.
8. Customer Service Matters 🤝 - Choose a company known for excellent customer service. You want a provider that’s easy to contact and helpful when you need them.

Investing in pet insurance means investing in your pet's future health. Make a well-informed decision and give your pet the best chance at a happy, healthy life! 🐾❤️

19/06/2024

🌟 MYTH BUSTER 🌟

MYTH: It’s okay to skip flea and tick preventatives during the winter.

FACT: Fleas prefer warmer conditions but they can be active year-round so that’s why using prevention throughout the year is essential. They are also quite happy to live in temperatures over 8 degrees, so freezing them out is also impossible in Australia. As soon as there are a few warmer days (or the heater is turned on) these eggs hatch. This leads to an emergence of fleas and lots of itchy pets.

An adult female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day.
Once you get a flea outbreak, it can take up to 3 months to stop the cycle!

18/06/2024

🌟 Payment Plans 🌟

FAQ: What happens if I don't have enough money to bring my pet to the vet ❓

With a payment plan you can start your pet’s treatment now and pay for it over time. Albury Animal Hospital offers payment plans through VetPay, Zip Pay and GapOnly. 💲💲
Get the best care for your pet today – ask us about our payment plans next time you visit or call us on (02) 6040 6995. 📞

Keeping Veterinary Care Affordable ❤️

16/06/2024

🌟 Does your cat hesitate before jumping❓🌟

Arthritis is a painful joint disease that nearly up to 40% of cats will experience in their lifetime. This can affect their everyday movements, such as going up stairs or jumping up onto the bed. 🐈
Fortunately, here at Albury Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to improving the quality of life of your cat, and we can work with you and your pet to find a solution to ease their pain.
We have a new innovative therapy called monoclonal antibody. It is a biological therapy that works like your cat's own immune system - it targets and neutralises a protein that stimulates pain in patients with arthritis. 🎯
One subcutaneous injection alleviates pain for a full month!

Book a health check with one of our vets today to see how we can help your beloved kitty get back to their usual self. ❤️

16/06/2024

🌟 BREED SPOTLIGHT: Borzoi 🌟

The Borzoi is best described as a large greyhound robed in a long, silky coat. Like a typical greyhound, it has family traits of long, slender legs, relatively narrow body, deep chest, tucked abdomen, arched loin and long tail. It's head is extraordinarily long and narrow.
Although smaller than an Irish Wolfhound, Borzoi are still very large, and especially tall, dogs.

Borzoi know they are aristocrats, but they also hide a bit of court jester. They are good-natured, gentle and calm, seemingly amused at whatever entertainment comes their way. They are happiest when that entertainment involves running. True to their heritage, borzoi are avid hunters, and will chase any small fleeing animal.

Borzoi need room to stretch out, inside and out. They are not a breed that can curl up in a corner or exercise in a pen. Their laid-back nature means that they are quite content to lounge about most of the day, but these dogs are athletes and need to push themselves running every day. As would be expected from a Russian dog, borzoi enjoy cold weather, and often lie on hard, cold surfaces. Their coat sheds once a year and they should be brushed two to three times a week.
Their average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. 💞

Do you have a Borzoi? Tell us in the comments below! 👇

14/06/2024

🌟 Welcoming new clients 🌟

Our Veterinary team is passionate about your pets - come in and see the hospital and get a sense of what we do and why we do it. ❤️

Our hospital offers after hours care for all our current clients - being on the books means we will look after you and your pets both day ☀️ and night 🌙

Please call in and see the hospital - it’s important to us that the Veterinary experience is positive for both you and your pet.

📞 6040 6995

14/06/2024

🌟 Who's your all-time favourite TV/movie animal? 🌟

Is it the loyal Lassie, the mischievous Scooby-Doo, the majestic Black Beauty, or perhaps the brave Simba from the Lion King? 🐾

Share your top pick and let us know why they stole your heart! 🦁🐶🐻

13/06/2024

🌟 Winter Health Tip 🌟

Even though the weather is now cooler, please don't forget to keep an eye on your pet's water intake and access to fresh water. ❄️
The combination of drier air and heated houses can lead to increased thirst! 💧

12/06/2024

🌟 DIY Sweet Potato Treats for Your Dog 🌟

Looking for a healthy, homemade treat for your pup? Try these easy DIY Sweet Potato Treats! Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and fibre. 🍠🐶
Here’s how to make them:

🟠 Ingredients:
🐾 2 large sweet potatoes
🐾 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

🟠 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 120°C.
2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or strips.
3. Coat (Optional): Toss the slices in a bowl with olive oil for added crispiness (optional).
4. Bake: Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2.5-3 hours, flipping halfway through. They should be dry and slightly crisp.
5. Cool: Let the treats cool completely before serving.

🟠 Storage:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate or freeze them!

🟠 Benefits:
🐾 Nutritious: Rich in vitamins A, B6, and C.
🐾 Low Fat: A great low-fat alternative to store-bought treats.
🐾 Easy Digestion: High in dietary fibre, which aids digestion.

Note: Always check with your vet before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet. 😊

Happy baking! 🐾🧡

10/06/2024

🌟 Mobile consultations available in Wodonga ⭐️

✅ Behaviour passionate vet
✅ Vet nurse
✅ Professional dog trainer

In your support corner to make your pets healthcare FUN and easier.

Call now to book 📞 6040 6995

Available - vaccinations (routine health checks), non-routine (a health concern) and behaviour consultations (Bravedogs program).

09/06/2024

🌟 “Everyone thinks they have the best dog, and none of them are wrong.” 🌟

08/06/2024

🌟 Primordial Pouch 🌟

FAQ: Why Does My Cat Have a Belly Pouch?🐾🐱

If you've ever noticed a saggy lump on your cat's belly and wondered what it is, you're not alone! This pouch is actually called the primordial pouch and it's perfectly normal. Here are a few fascinating facts about it:

🔵 What is it? The primordial pouch is a loose flap of skin, usually located around the lower belly area.
🔵 Why do cats have it? While the exact purpose is still debated, there are a few popular theories:
🔸 Protection: It helps shield vital organs during fights.
🔸Flexibility: It allows cats to stretch out fully when running or jumping.
🔸 Storage: It provides extra space for a full stomach after a big meal.

🔵 Which cats have it? All cats, big and small, can have a primordial pouch. It's a common feature in many breeds, including domestic short-haired cats and wild cats like lions and tigers!
🔵 Should you be concerned? Usually, no! It's a normal part of feline anatomy. However, if you notice sudden changes or other signs of discomfort, it's always a good idea to check with our vets.

So, the next time you see that extra flap of skin on your feline friend, know that it's just one of the many unique and wonderful things about cats! 🐾💕

07/06/2024

Dear clients and community.

Albury City council has plans to remove half of the car parks in the Griffith road carpark. Albury Animal Hospital has serious concerns about this proposal - noting that overflow of our clients utilise this carpark as well as all of our team members. We know that increasing the walk to our hospital from the carpark, especially with cats in carriers and dogs that could be anxious, poses serious risk to their handlers, and increases client stress. We are also concerned for cat owners as we know this could increase stress for cats, who have a tolerance level and would potentially make our job of treating them calmly more difficult.

There are obviously benefits to this proposal, and we would all like to see the car park tidied up and looked after better. However, decreasing the car parking spaces just for the sake of utilising a grant is going to inconvenience our clients, patients and staff.

We would encourage our clients to please have a say as the outcome will be determined by engagement.

As we work towards being open outside of conventional hours we would indeed like to see improved lighting, security and maintain the current access to car parking.

What are your thoughts? Tell us in the comments below ⬇️

🚶‍♂️ Exciting News! AlburyCity is thrilled to announce our participation in Transport for NSW's (TfNSW) Places to Love program! We've secured funding to transform a public space within a 15-minute walk of a public transport hub.

🌟 Introducing Places to Love - Lavington! We're creating a vibrant public space in the heart of Lavington CBD for everyone to enjoy.
🚧 As part of this initiative, we'll be transforming the Griffith Road Car Park in Lavington into a dynamic public space perfect for events, developed in collaboration with the Lavington community.
This project supports our Retail Action Plan, specifically Action 1.12: Convert Griffith Road Car Park into a green space with pop-up retailers to enhance walkability around Lavington Square.

🎉 What's in store:
Temporary seating, greenery, bicycle parking, creative pavement artwork, and lighting
Community events like markets, live music, and pop-up retailers
📅 Over six months during spring and summer, we'll gather community feedback to perfect the final design. All installations are easily removable, and vehicle access along Hardware Lane will remain unaffected.
♿ Accessibility is a priority! Existing disabled parking spaces will be relocated according to our concept plan.

Share your thoughts with us in person:

📆Wednesday 12 June
⏰12.00pm - 4.00pm
📍Griffith Road Car Park

Join us in making Lavington a more vibrant and walkable community!

Click here to Have your Say 👉 https://bit.ly/3Xd61gZ

05/06/2024

🌟 King's Birthday Public Holiday 🌟

Please note that we will be CLOSED for the King's Birthday public holiday on Monday 10th June.

For after-hours emergencies please call VetChat call 1300 215 328. ☎️
If your pet requires emergency critical care, VetChat will alert our vet on call and we will be in contact shortly.

We hope you have a relaxing weekend!

05/06/2024

🌟 Puppy Pre-School Graduates 🌟

Big congrats, high-paw and tail wags to Ponyo, Millie and Dusty our puppy graduates from the month of May!

Establishing a solid positive foundation relationship with a vet hospital is key to long term successful vet visits - so we hope to see you back regularly just for pats and cuddles 🥰

Have a puppy and haven’t booked into puppy preschool? Call us today! We have spots available starting next Wednesday!

05/06/2024

🌟 Winter Safety - Heaters 🌟

Household heaters may be comforting for pets but they can be dangerous. Not only are our furry friends at risk of overheating or burning their fur and skin, but they are in danger of smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning from both gas heaters and fireplaces. 🐱🔥

🐾 Never leave your pet alone with a heater and ensure that you consistently monitor your pet’s exposure to the heater, including keeping a safe distance and limiting the exposure time.
🐾 Install a fireguard screen around the fireplace. This will prevent burning and stop your pet from eating the ashes and ingesting any harmful toxins from fire starters.
🐾 Check for gas leakages when using a gas fireplace or heater and to ensure the damper is kept open at all times for ventilation.
🐾 Gas space heaters can be particularly dangerous to pets as they are unvented and need to be externally ventilated. Keep a window open and do not operate the heater for more than four hours at a time or in confined spaces like a bathroom or bedroom.
🐾 Ensure that all games and toys remain away from household heaters.