North Road Veterinary Centre

06/08/2024

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!

26/07/2024

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 pet 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 swells or twists and fills with gas. It can quickly cause breathing trouble and restrict blood flow. ⚠️ This is a life threatening emergency!

👉 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 eg Great Danes, German Shorthaired Pointers

👉 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 is well underway! While those fuzzy friends may rock fur coats naturally, some pooches 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 retaining heat and so may benefit from a coat
▪ Dogs with fine or thin fur like greyhounds and 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 for example 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.

https://www.northroadvet.com.au/blog/caring-for-pets-in-winter

11/06/2024

Meet Claude and his bow ties!! He is boarding with us, and dresses for the occasion! Such a special boy, we love you Claude!

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, 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.

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.

Unlock the secrets of Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) in our blog. Learn about symptoms, causes, and effective treatments.

27/05/2024

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!

10/05/2024

Possum Care: Over the last 24 hours we have had two healthy brushtail possums irresponsibly dumped in the clinic garden in cardboard boxes. They appear to be from the same family.
Trapping and relocating native animals without a permit is illegal, and people can be prosecuted under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Relocating possums can be a death sentence as they are highly territorial. One of our caring nurses at North Road will need to transport them to a wildlife shelter in the Dandenongs after work tonight, so they can be released in the national park in a few weeks -when they have recovered from this ordeal.
Please always call us to discuss any wildlife concerns and we will be happy to help or direct you to people to assist you.

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 solutions to help ease your dog's anxiety, including behaviour modification techniques, 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.

24/04/2024

Meet beautiful little Ettie, she was desexed yesterday. Not so happy with her cone, so switched to a surgical suit instead!

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, don't let tail chasing go unaddressed.

11/04/2024

April 7th-13th is Dog Bite Prevention Week 🐶
What you can do:
• Educate yourself and family members on dog body language.
• Socialize your dogs from a young age ensuring they have as many positive encounters as possible.
• Advocate for your dog! Avoid putting them in situations they are uncomfortable.

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 North Road Veterinary Centre! 🐣🐾 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, it may be an emergency, contact us or the local emergency centre for advice. Have a safe and joyful Easter filled with wagging tails and purrs.

28/03/2024

The North Road team wish you and your furry family a happy and healthy Easter period. Keep your precious pets safe, remember keep those chocolate eggs well away from your pets!

26/03/2024

Beware of the hidden dangers lurking in the grass. Grass seeds, if unnoticed, can embed in your pet's skin, leading to painful abscesses. To safeguard your furry friend, make daily inspections during our warmer months when the grass is dry. 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.

14/03/2024

Simply stunning! Meet beautiful GSP Storm waiting very patiently for her North Road treat!

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 and making a positive start with your puppy is essential. 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.

Do not use techniques that dogs dislike, these can instil fear, anxiety, and aggression, jeopardising the precious bond shared with your pet.

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!

28/02/2024

A beautiful brown Burmese has been brought into our clinic today found in the St Kilda area. We are unable to locate his owner as his microchip does not match.
If you may know who he may belong to please contact us on 03 95964804.
He has a distinctive feature to help identify proof of ownership.

26/02/2024

Did you know your pet can suffer from heat stress? As the temperature rises, our pets become more susceptible to heat stress, which can even be fatal. 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.

14/02/2024

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 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, call us 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! 🐶🐱❤️

07/02/2024

Meet Chester!! This handsome boy paid us a visit………. what breed is he?
……………………… he is a staffy corgi x

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 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- 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 us is an important first step to management.

09/01/2024

🐱 Having trouble giving your cat their medication? Here are some top tips to make the process a little smoother! 💊

1️⃣ Master the art of correct handling to avoid aggression and ensure safety for you and your cat.
2️⃣ Consider using pill pockets or hiding the pill in treats, like lunch meats, spreads, or cheeses, to entice your cat.
3️⃣ Try a pill popper for a fuss-free way to deliver the medication while keeping your hands clear of your cat's teeth.
4️⃣ 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 for advice.