Southern Cross Equine Vet

18/11/2025

🐴 What is Equine Asthma?

Did you know horses can suffer from asthma, just like humans? Equine Asthma Syndrome (EAS)
is a chronic, non-infectious respiratory issue triggered by dust, pollen,mould, and more. If your horse coughs, has nasal discharge, or tires easily during exercise, it may be time for a check-up. 🌬️

🌾 Managing Equine Asthma: Tips for Owners
Here are a few easy changes that can make a big difference:
✔️ Use low-dust bedding (like paper or shavings)
✔️ Soak hay before feeding
✔️ Maximize turnout time
✔️ Avoid sweeping or dusty areas during feeding time
Prevention is key!

04/11/2025

One of the most rewarding parts of being an equine vet is seeing a horse recover from something that once seemed impossible. 💛

With time, care, and trust, their ability to heal — both physically and emotionally — never ceases to amaze me.

This is Kuta. A reminder to us all: never give up too soon. 🌿

01/11/2025

Some good advice.

🐴Information for horse owners

Here is some great information about colic from American Association of Equine Practitioners

🔗 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BemN8CL61/?mibextid=wwXIfr

23/10/2025

A tough day for everyone involved.

There was a tragic accident at Sutton Forest today, and my heart goes out to the families affected. I was proud to stand alongside other dedicated vets and emergency responders doing their very best in heartbreaking circumstances.

My thoughts are with everyone affected — the driver, their family, the horses and their owners, and all those who were part of the response. The police and SES were incredible. There are so many people whose jobs can be so tough.

Thank you to everyone who’s checked in on me — your kindness means a lot.

14/10/2025

A beautiful day in the office!
Welcome to the world, Forrest.
Mum and foal are healthy and doing great.

06/10/2025

🐴 A Cautionary Tale: Corrugated Iron and Horses

Recently, I was called out to treat Gypsy, a lovely pony who had suffered a nasty wound caused by corrugated iron. It’s something many of us have lying around our yards — old sheets leaning against a shed, or tucked behind a stable — but it can cause serious injuries to curious or playful horses.

In this case, the pony had caught the back of her pastern on a sharp edge, resulting in a deep cut. Thankfully, her owner stayed calm and acted quickly:
🩸 She applied pressure using a sanitary pad — an excellent, clean, absorbent dressing in an emergency!
📞 She called me straight away.

Because of that quick thinking, I was able to suture and bandage the wound promptly. With antibiotics and careful aftercare, Gypsy has made a fantastic recovery. Now, one smart owner and her pony are back doing all the fun things they love doing.

🧠 Takeaway:
• Keep an eye out for any sharp or rusted corrugated iron around your property.
• Dispose of or secure it safely to prevent accidents.
• If your horse does sustain a wound:
1. Stay calm.
2. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth, pad, or even a sanitary pad.
3. Call your vet immediately.
Southern Cross Equine Vet 0413834370

23/09/2025

📢 Quick heads up for everyone in and around Helensburgh!
Southern Cross Equine Vet will be in town this Friday 🐴✨.

If you’d like to book an appointment, please get in touch. 0413834370

19/09/2025

What a joy it’s been to spend the day at the Willinga Park Veterinary CPD Event! 🌿🐴

A huge thank you to the amazing speakers, Dr. Lucas Nolazco and Dr. Stephanie Givan, for sharing their expertise and insights into equine surgery and internal medicine. Such a privilege to learn from the best in such a stunning setting at Willinga Park.

And as a bonus – the brilliant showjumping on today made the experience even more special! 🏆✨

Grateful for the opportunity to grow, connect, and bring back fresh knowledge to Southern Cross Equine Vet to better care for the horses we love. 💙

31/08/2025

🌱 Spring Grass: What Every Horse Owner Should Know 🌱

As the days get warmer and the pastures turn green, our horses are just as excited as we are to see fresh spring grass. While it looks healthy and natural, this lush growth can actually pose some risks if not managed carefully.

👉 Why is spring grass a concern?
Spring grass is especially high in sugars (fructans), which can be difficult for horses to digest. For horses prone to laminitis, insulin resistance, Cushing’s/PPID, or obesity, this sugar surge can trigger serious health problems. Even healthy horses may experience digestive upset or colic if they go from hay to rich pasture too quickly.

👉 When is the grass riskiest?
• Sunny days followed by cool nights cause sugar levels to spike.
• Early mornings after frosty nights are especially high-risk times.
• Short, stressed grass can actually be higher in sugar than tall, mature pasture.

👉 How to protect your horse this spring:
✅ Introduce turnout gradually — start with 20–30 minutes and build up slowly.
✅ Consider a grazing muzzle for good-doers or laminitis-prone horses.
✅ Keep track of body condition and weight changes weekly.
✅ Provide plenty of forage (hay) before turnout so horses don’t gorge.
✅ Work with your vet to assess individual risk and create a safe grazing plan.

Spring grass doesn’t have to be scary — it just needs to be managed. With the right precautions, your horse can enjoy the season safely. 🐴💚

If you’d like advice tailored to your horse’s needs, we’re only a message away! Southern Cross Equine Vet 0413 834 370

27/08/2025

📢 Quick heads up for everyone in and around Darkes Forest!
Southern Cross Equine Vet will be in town this Thursday 🐴✨.

If you’d like to book an appointment, please get in touch.

25/08/2025

🌍🐕 International Dog Day – 26 August 🐕🌍

The bond between a dog and their owner is something truly special.
I feel very fortunate to have shared my life with both horses and dogs – they’ve made me who I am today. 💛

Take a moment today to show your dog just how much they mean to you.

Although I am primarily an equine vet, there are times when it’s comforting to have a vet come to you for your dog’s needs too. If that time comes, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

📞 Southern Cross Equine (and All Creatures) Vet
0413 834 370

21/08/2025

Unlock exceptional equine care with our mobile veterinary services. Visit our website today to learn how we can help your horse thrive.

Providing top-notch health solutions for your horses.