Lithgow Veterinary Hospital - helping all animals great and small.
At Lithgow Vets, we love your pets as much as you do, and it is our mission to make sure that every animal that walks through our doors is treated with love and compassion.
20/08/2024
Absolutely! Despite their reputation for independence, studies show that cats can form strong and secure attachments to their human companions. Just like their canine counterparts, cats can also grapple with separation anxiety, and recognising the signs is vital.
If your cat starts exhibiting unusual behaviour, such as urinating or defecating outside the litter box, excessive vocalisation, destructive activities, or heightened grooming, these could be indications of distress when left alone. Additionally, an unusually strong attachment to you or their primary caregiver might signify underlying separation anxiety.
Understanding these emotional cues is important for providing compassionate care. If you observe these behaviours in your feline friend, have a chat with us. We can offer valuable strategies to manage and alleviate separation anxiety.
13/08/2024
Did you know that pet dental disease is one of the most common problems seen by veterinarians? Recent studies show that at least 70% of cats and dogs have some degree of dental disease by the age of 3. This can often go unnoticed!
With August being Pet Dental Health Month, it's the perfect time to pay extra attention to your furry friend's dental health. Regular dental check-ups can help prevent serious health issues and ensure your pet remains happy and healthy.
Schedule a dental check-up with us today and give your pet the care they deserve!
25/07/2024
Did you know IBD, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition, affects pets too? Here's what to watch for:
▪ Weight Loss: Is your pet looking a little slimmer than usual?
▪ Frequent Diarrhoea: More bathroom breaks than normal could be a sign.
▪ Low Energy: Is your usually playful pup feeling sluggish?
▪ Vomiting: Chronic vomiting can be a red flag.
▪ Gas & Abdominal Pain: Gurgling tummies and discomfort are a concern.
▪ Bloody Stool: Bright red blood is a serious symptom.
▪ Skin & Coat Issues: A dull or distressed coat can be a sign of IBD.
Concerned? Don't wait ❗ Early diagnosis is key. Contact us if your pet shows any of these signs. While IBD isn't curable, with treatment, pets can live happy and healthy lives!
15/07/2024
Bloat, or gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition where a dog's stomach twists and fills with gas. It can quickly cause breathing trouble and restrict blood flow.
👉 Symptoms to Watch For:
▪ Retching without throwing up
▪ Swollen belly
▪ Restlessness or anxiety
▪ Lethargy
▪ Excessive drooling
▪ Panting
👉 Breeds at Higher Risk:
▪ Large breeds, especially deep-chested ones
👉 Preventing Bloat:
▪ Know your dog's risk factors (size, breed, family history)
▪ Feed smaller meals (2-4x daily) instead of one large one
▪ Use food puzzles to slow down eating
▪ Avoid sudden diet changes
▪ Limit fatty foods and added oils
▪ Wait an hour before or after walks to feed your dog
❗ Remember: Bloat requires immediate veterinary attention! Don't wait - seek help right away!
08/07/2024
Winter's here! While those fuzzy friends may rock fur coats naturally, some pups feel the chill more than others. Here's a quick guide to know if your dog needs extra warmth:
▪ If your dog is shivering this is a sign they are too cold
▪ Very small dogs have a harder time at retaining heat and so may benefit from a coat
▪ Dogs with fine or thin fur eg greyhounds, whippets will benefit from the extra warmth
▪ Healthy dogs with lots of fur do not usually need additional clothing
▪ Old or unwell dogs should wear a coat eg dogs with arthritis
▪ Very young or underweight dogs feel the cold much faster
▪ Outside temperature and length of time outside should be considered
▪ Make sure the coat fits properly and is the right size
⚠️ Remember: Never leave pets outside without proper shelter from the cold!
26/06/2024
🐾 Is your furry friend displaying any of these signs? It could be a sign of diabetes, one of the most common endocrine diseases in pets. But don't worry, diabetes is treatable with proper medical and dietary management. Early diagnosis is key to ensuring your pet enjoys a normal, happy life. If you notice increased thirst, urination, hunger, or any other concerning symptoms, contact us immediately.
17/06/2024
Wondering how to keep your furry friends warm and healthy as the temperature drops? Our latest blog is packed with expert tips to ensure your pets stay snug and safe all season long. Don't miss out on essential advice for a happy, healthy winter with your pets! Read more now.
Winter serves as an opportune time to schedule your pet's annual vet check-up or consider desexing. As spring approaches, so does breeding season, particularly for cats, who can begin breeding at a young age. Desexing your pet is crucial in preventing unwanted litters and minimising the risks associated with unplanned pregnancies. Moreover, desexing offers numerous health and behavioural benefits for your furry companion. Don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian to discuss scheduling an appointment for desexing and to learn more about its advantages.
04/06/2024
Winter poses unique safety concerns for our curious pets, who may unwittingly find themselves in precarious situations. Some may seek warmth in hazardous locations, such as car engines, leading to potentially devastating outcomes. Additionally, the colder months can bring an uptick in burn injuries as pets may accidentally come into contact with heaters or fireplace flames. Extended exposure to heaters can also dry out their skin, leading to discomfort and irritation.
To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to restrict access to heaters and fireplaces, ensuring your pet's safety indoors. Consider utilising pet heating pads, available at many pet retailers, as a safe alternative to keep your furry friend warm during the winter season. By remaining vigilant and implementing preventive measures, you can help safeguard your pet from winter-related hazards and keep them snug and secure throughout the colder months.
01/06/2024
Lithgow Vet Hopsital is looking for a new nurse to join our team.
Do you thrive on building meaningful connections with patients and their owners?
Are you passionate about seeking out opportunities to expand your veterinary nursing skills?
Are you ready to sink your teeth into small animal dentistry and ensure every patient leaves with a winning smile?
At Lithgow Vet Hospital, we know the true value of Veterinary Nurses. Our nurses play an integral role in our patient’s care and the running of the clinic.
We are currently looking for an experienced nurse to help us continue to deliver heartfelt and personalised care.
Ideally, you will have:
· Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing
· At least two years nursing experience
· Comfortable in all aspects of nursing, including surgery and reception.
· A passion and understanding of small animal dentistry (we are all about protecting those chompers!) or a keen desire to learn.
You will also need to be comfortable with Nurse Co-Consulting. During nurse co-consulting you will be writing up history notes, billing and invoicing and taking cute photos and printing them for each patient (yep, each client goes home with a cute pin-up of their pet!). It’s okay if you haven’t done something like this before; a willingness to learn is all you need!
So, why would you join our team?
· We are passionate about further learning, training and growth with many opportunities for continuing education provided and encouraged.
· Our practice isn’t just about delivering a high standard of veterinary service. It’s about developing a heart-warming connection with each, and every client.
· Having fun at work is as important as delivering a memorable client experience. We love what we do, and we love the team who we do it with.
We are looking for someone to join our team for the long term, someone who wants to be part of something great.
We will consider flexibility in work arrangements e.g full time, part time or casual. Shifts will vary between 8 and 10hrs, with start/finish times between 7am – 7pm weekdays. We are not open on weekends.
We are ready for you to join us, so if this sounds like it's up your alley then send us an email to [email protected]. Please send your resume with 2-3 referees and a cover letter answering these three questions.
· What is an achievement that you are most proud of?
· What does a valuable veterinary nurse look like to you?
· Why should we book an interview with you?
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
30/05/2024
Discover the secrets of Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) in our latest blog post! Dive into the symptoms, explore the causes, and find out about effective treatments to help your furry friend. 🐾✨
Embarking on the journey of toilet training your puppy? Here are some essential tips for success:
📅 Start Early: Lay the groundwork for success by beginning as early as 8 weeks old to establish a consistent routine.
🚶♂️ Guide Often: Guide your puppy to designated toileting spots frequently, especially after waking up, playing, and eating.
📍 Stay Consistent: Stick to chosen toileting areas to create a familiar routine that helps your puppy understand where to go.
🎉 Praise the Effort: Celebrate successful toileting with plenty of praise and positive reinforcement – it goes a long way!
🚫 Avoid Punishments: Accidents happen, but scolding or punishing your puppy isn't the answer. Instead, gently redirect them to the correct toileting spot.
Creating a positive environment sets the stage for a smooth and stress-free toilet training experience for your furry friend. 🐾
14/05/2024
Did you know that a staggering 30% of Australia's 2.7 million domestic cats are clinically overweight or obese? Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your cat's well-being.
Here are some tips:
🍲 Nutrition and Exercise: Consult us for personalised advice on a balanced diet and suitable exercise routines for your cat.
🩺 Regular Check-ups: Ensure routine vet check-ups to monitor your cat's weight and overall health.
🚫 Moderate Treats: Even the best-behaved cats can benefit from moderation. Be mindful of treat portions.
🎉 Stay Active: Keep your cat engaged with toys and playtime. It's a fun way to maintain their physical health.
Let's ensure our feline friends lead healthy, happy lives!
05/05/2024
🐾 It's Dog Anxiety Awareness Week! As caring veterinarians, we understand the importance of supporting our furry friends through their challenges. Anxiety in dogs is a real concern for many pet owners, but with the right guidance and care, it's manageable.🔍 Recognising the triggers of anxiety is the first step. Whether it's loud noises, separation anxiety, or unfamiliar environments, we're here to help you identify and address them effectively.
💼 Our practice offers tailored solutions to help ease your dog's anxiety, including behaviour modification techniques, personalised training plans, and, when necessary, medication options under veterinary guidance.
🌟 Let's work together to create a calm and supportive environment for your beloved canine companion. Reach out to schedule a consultation or learn more about reducing anxiety in your pets. Your pet's wellbeing is our top priority. Together, we can make a positive difference in their lives.
26/04/2024
🌍🐾 Join us in celebrating World Veterinary Day on April 27! 🐾🌍
On this special day, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the dedicated veterinarians around the globe who work tirelessly to ensure the health and happiness of our beloved furry friends. To our incredible team of veterinary professionals, thank you for your unwavering commitment to the well-being of every pet that visits our clinic. Your compassion, expertise, and love make a world of difference every single day.
Let's take a moment to appreciate the bond between humans and animals, and recognise the vital role that veterinary care plays in fostering a healthier and happier world for both.
📣 Send a shoutout to your favourite vet or vet nurse in the comments below. Together, let's celebrate the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to the welfare of our four-legged companions
23/04/2024
Rat bait poisoning can cause symptoms like weakness, vomiting, and even seizures. 🚫 If you suspect your pet has ingested rat bait or shows any unusual symptoms, don't wait—seek veterinary care immediately. Remember to keep rat bait well out of reach and opt for pet-safe alternatives. Let's keep our pets safe and healthy together!
21/04/2024
😆🐶😍
18/04/2024
Is your pet constantly chasing its tail? 🌀 Tail chasing can be cute, but it might also signal underlying issues. Reasons vary from boredom and pent-up energy to skin irritation or even neurological problems. If your furry friend can't seem to leave their tail alone, it's time for a check-up. We'll help identify the cause and provide tailored solutions to keep your pet happy and healthy. Don't let tail chasing go unaddressed—schedule a consultation with us today!
09/04/2024
Is your cat spraying or urinating outside the litter box? 🐱 Our team is here to help! Spraying and inappropriate urination can be signs of underlying health issues or behavioural problems. Cats may spray or urinate outside the litter box for various reasons, including territorial marking, stress, medical issues like urinary tract infections, or changes in their environment. It's essential to identify the underlying cause through a thorough examination to address the behaviour effectively.
Don't stress—let us provide expert guidance and solutions to keep your furry friend happy and your home clean. Book a consultation today and let's tackle this issue together!
30/03/2024
🌷🐰 Hoppy Easter from Lithgow Veterinary Hospital! 🐣🐾 As you enjoy this egg-cellent holiday with family and furry friends, remember to keep Easter treats out of reach from pets. Chocolate, candy wrappers, and Easter lilies can be harmful to our four-legged companions. Instead, treat them to pet-safe Easter goodies and spend quality time together. If you suspect your pet has ingested something they shouldn't, don't hesitate to contact us for guidance. Have a safe and joyful Easter filled with wagging tails and purrs.
26/03/2024
Beware of the hidden dangers lurking in the grass during outdoor activities. Grass seeds, if unnoticed, can embed in your pet's skin, leading to painful abscesses. To safeguard your furry friend, make daily inspections. Watch for excessive scratching, head shaking, or persistent licking, as these may indicate a grass seed issue. If you observe any signs such as swelling or discharge from the skin, don't hesitate to visit us promptly. Early detection and intervention can prevent complications.
Let's keep our pets safe and enjoy a worry-free summer together!
08/03/2024
March is Polite Pets Month, emphasising the importance of fostering good behaviour in our furry companions. A well-behaved pet not only brings joy but also enhances the bond between you and your canine companion. Prevention is the key to addressing behaviour issues, making a positive start with your puppy essential.
Opt for the most humane and effective method – reward-based training. By acknowledging and rewarding desirable behaviour, you not only create a well-mannered pet but also inject joy into the training process, solidifying the connection between you and your furry friend.
Steer clear of techniques that dogs dislike, as punitive measures can instil fear, anxiety, and aggression, jeopardising the precious bond shared with your pet. If behavioural concerns arise, don't hesitate to consult our knowledgeable team. We're dedicated to providing expert guidance, ensuring your pet's well-being and happiness.
02/03/2024
March 3rd marks Tripawd Awareness Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the strength and spirit of our three-legged furry friends. Whether they've overcome challenges or were born resilient, we salute the courage and resilience of pets who have faced adversity with three legs and a heart full of determination.
Every Step Tells a Story: Whether they hop, skip, or jump, each step taken by a tripawd is a testament to their incredible spirit. Today, let's celebrate the journey of our three-legged companions and appreciate the joy they bring to our lives.
Share your tripawd's journey in the comments below, from challenges to victories, and let's inspire others with tales of triumph!
27/02/2024
Did you know your pet can suffer from heat stress? ☀ As the temperature rises, our pets become more susceptible to heat stress, which can be dangerous for their health. It's crucial to be vigilant and act quickly during a heatwave to keep our pets safe. Signs of heat stress to watch out for include excessive panting, bright red gums, drooling, vomiting, restlessness, and unsteady movements.
To prevent heat stress, it is vital to implement the following measures:
▪ Always ensure your pet has access to an abundant supply of fresh and cool water.
▪ Modify your exercise routine to avoid the sun's peak hours and refrain from walking your pet on hot surfaces that may harm their paws.
▪ Never leave your pet in a vehicle, even if the windows are open.
▪ Make sure outdoor pets have access to ample shade and cool areas. If you suspect that your pet is experiencing heat stress, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary advice.
Taking these precautions will help protect your beloved pets from the dangers of heat stress.
19/02/2024
Paws up, pet parents! Did you know that some of our delicious household snacks can be super toxic for our furry friends? Let's keep them safe by avoiding these foods and plants that can cause harm to our beloved pets. Check out the list below:
🚫 Alcohol
🚫 Avocados
🚫 Bread dough
🚫 Chocolate
🚫 Coffee and caffeine
🚫 Garlic, onions, and chives
🚫 Grapes, sultanas, and raisins
🚫 Human drugs (like ma*****na and nurofen)
🚫 Macadamia nuts
🚫 Mouldy food
🚫 Certain plants like cycad and peace lilies
🚫 Xylitol (found in lollies and gum)
Remember, prevention is key! Keep these items out of your pet's reach to avoid any accidents. But if your fur baby happens to munch on any of these forbidden treats, don't hesitate to call our clinic right away. If it's after hours, reach out to your nearest Animal Emergency Service, or contact the Australian Animal Poisons Centre at 1300 TOX PET. 📞 Let's keep our furry friends healthy and happy! 🐶🐱❤️
06/02/2024
Beat the Heat: 🐾 Follow these hydration tips to keep your pets cool and happy all summer long!
▪ Fresh Water Always: Keep a clean bowl of cool water accessible at all times. Change it frequently, especially on hot days.
▪ Portable Hydration: When outdoors, carry a collapsible water bowl and offer drinks during playtime or walks.
▪ Ice-Treat Fun: Freeze water or low-sodium broth in ice cube trays for a tasty and hydrating treat your pet will love.
▪ Wet Diet Wonders: Include wet pet food in their meals. The extra moisture helps keep them hydrated.
▪ Monitor Hydration: Check for signs of dehydration – dry gums, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity. If in doubt, consult our team.
Share these tips and let's keep our furry friends refreshed and well hydrated over summer!
24/01/2024
Many of our pets experience stress and anxiety, especially during vet visits, when there are loud noises (eg fireworks or storms) and when a change in environment occurs (eg, moving house, visitors at home, etc).
Being able to identify when your pet is feeling anxious is a wonderful tool we encourage every pet-parent to know as it improves our understanding of their needs and when our help is required
Behaviour management is a complex and difficult issue, with each pet requiring different methods to help them. Discussing a plan with your vet is an important first step so book a consultation today to get started.
10/01/2024
🐱 Having trouble giving your cat their medication? Here are some top tips to make the process a little smoother! 💊
▪ Master the art of correct handling to avoid aggression and ensure safety for you and your cat.
▪ Consider using pill pockets or hiding the pill in treats, like lunch meats, spreads, or cheeses, to entice your cat.
▪ Try a pill popper for a fuss-free way to deliver the medication while keeping your hands clear of your cat's teeth.
▪ Opt for flavoured medications from compounding pharmacies, which come in enticing flavours like tuna, chicken, or beef, making it easier for your cat to take their meds.
Remember, positive reinforcement is key! If you need more advice or alternatives, don't hesitate to consult our friendly team. At Lithgow Veterinary Hospital, we're always here to help you and your feline friend! 😺
03/01/2024
🐾 Is your furry friend showing signs of arthritis? 🦴 Here's what you need to know to help them live a comfortable and pain-free life!
Look out for limping, stiffness, and difficulty rising or jumping, as these could be signs of arthritis. Prevention is key, so maintaining a healthy weight for your pet is essential to reduce strain on their joints.
Our nurses can create a tailored program for your pet to help manage their condition. Medications can effectively control pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Remember, never give human painkillers to your pet, as these can be harmful.
Give your pet the care they deserve! Contact us for a consultation and let's work together to improve their quality of life. 🩺🐶
22/12/2023
A huge happy holidays and new year from some of our adorably festive patients!
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At Lithgow Veterinary Hospital, we treat your pets like we treat our own. We know that they are important members of the family and we strive to make sure that they receive the professional and dedicated care that they deserve.
Lithgow Veterinary Hospital has been establish in the Lithgow area for well over 30 years. We have grown a lot since the first days in a tin shed on Magpie Hollow Road. Now the clinic boasts a lovely, central location on the corner of Main Street and Ferro Street. Dr Michelle bought the clinic back in 2007, but she is a home-grown Lithgow girl and has been an integral part of the hospital since she was a teenager. She often likes to tell us the story of her on hands and knees, scrubbing the tiles with a toothbrush when she was just 13 years old.
At Lithgow Veterinary Hospital, we have a strong team focus on working together to achieve great things for your pet. Our staff are all passionate about continuously updating our medicine in a challenging and ever changing field. We take pride in making sure we have the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment to enable us to provide top-shelf care for your fur kids. From dental x-rays and ultrasound to advanced laboratory machines, we’re able to give your pet on-the-spot care without the stress of waiting for results.
Every one of our staff members are animal lovers and have come in to this profession because we want to help you look after your beloved pets. Our job can be challenging and stressful, but we couldn’t dream of doing anything else. We’re dedicated to being here for you and your pet any time you need us. We have a 24hour service for our clients because we know how scary it can be when something happens to your pet when our doors are closed.
If you want to read more about the talented team behind our fantastic hospital, visit our webpage for some more info.
