Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital WA

27/08/2024

Can you help? 🗞️

We are running low on newspaper!
If you have any newspapers lying around that you’re willing to part with, we’d greatly appreciate your donation. 🐾

26/08/2024

Today is International dog day!
To celebrate we would love you to share your dogs picture with us in the comments below 🐶❤️

21/08/2024

Don't miss out - August Dental Month is almost over!

Take advantage of our free dental checks for your dog and/or cat!

Did you know you can brush your pet's teeth to prevent plaque buildup? Other home dental care options include adding a dental diet and dental chews to their routine for extra protection.

Please give us a call on 9851 1177 if you would like to find out more or if you wish to make an appointment.🦷🪥🐶🐱

16/08/2024

Attention Rabbit Owners:

Calicivirus disease is being introduced to local areas in an attempt to help manage the wild rabbit population. To protect your pet rabbit, please see the 3 steps below that will help to keep them safe:

1. Ensure your rabbit is up to date with their vaccinations. We offer the Filavac vaccine, which offers annual protection against two strains of calicivirus.

2. Keep your pet rabbit indoors or if outside ensure their enclosure is mosquito and fly-proof.

3. Avoid any contact with wild rabbits.

Please give us a call if you would like to find out more about calicivirus and ways to keep your rabbit as safe as possible. 🐰❤️

13/08/2024

GapOnly is now available at Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital WA

Until recently if you have pet insurance you would have to pay the vet for the treatment provided and then claim any benefits later from your insurance provider. This meant that even people with insured pets would potentially need to find a way to pay hundreds of dollars for their pets’ care.
We are now able to offer a much simpler way of caring for your pet in their time of need. Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital now offers GapOnly for a large number of insurance companies. If your pet is insured with one of the companies covered by GapOnly, we will normally be able to submit a claim for the amount you are covered for. All you will need to pay is the excess amount. This takes just a few minutes to process while you wait.
Please note, the process takes around 10 minutes so if you are in a hurry, you can still pay the bill in full and claim your benefit back afterwards the way you would have previously.
So, if your pet is requiring veterinary attention for whatever it may be; surgery, accident, illness or ongoing care etc we can be paid directly by your insurance provider and all you pay is the excess, you will not need to make the full payment up-front.
If you would like to know more or if you wish to know if your insurance provider is covered, please call Jorgie on 9851 1177 (Tues-Fri)

07/08/2024

We are very excited to partner with the Spay It Forward by WA Pet Project

📣📣 Welcome Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital WA to Spay It Forward's network of partnered veterinary practices! 🎉🎉

We are thrilled to FINALLY be able to assist in the Great Southern Region of WA, thanks to the experienced new practice owners and their passionate team of local veterinarians, nurses, and support staff! They are a practice dedicated to desexing and helping the local community, striving to provide excellence in service, compassion, and care.

Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital also offers a fantastic webpage about desexing, covering everything you need to know about the surgery, its benefits, and answers to common questions. Check it out here: https://www.mtbarkervet.com.au/DesexingSterilisation.aspx

Join us in welcoming them and spreading the word in the Great Southern! 🐾❤️

06/08/2024

Did you know?

1. Dogs have 42 teeth and just like humans, dogs have baby teeth that fall out to make way for their adult teeth.

2. Cats have 30 teeth and just like dogs still need regular dental care!

3. Dental disease is one of the most common and painful diseases seen in pets. By age three, statistics show that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease, making dental care essential.

4. Bad breath is one of the most recognised and reported signs of dental disease, however other symptoms can include drooling, pawing at the mouth, pain when eating and only wanting to eat on one side of the mouth, discolouration of teeth, redness of gums and more.

5. Chew toys and dental treats can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while keeping your pet entertained.

6. Just like us, pets should have their teeth checked by a vet at least once a year to catch any issues early. Take advantage of our FREE dental checks by making an appointment!

7. Regular teeth brushing can extend your pet's dental health and lifespan, but start slowly to help them get used to it!

August is national pet dental month and to celebrate we have discounted dental procedures for the month. Take advantage by giving us a call for more information or to make an appointment for your dog or cat 🐶🐱🐾

01/08/2024

Happy Birthday to our amazing horses! 🎉🐴
As we celebrate, it's also a reminder that the breeding season is just around the corner.

We’re excited to announce that our equine breeding facilities are fully equipped to assist with both fresh and frozen artificial insemination. Our services include:

- Artificial Insemination: Expert assistance with fresh and frozen semen to ensure successful breeding.

- Semen Storage: Secure and safe storage facilities for semen to keep it in optimal condition.

- Breeding Soundness Exams: Comprehensive assessments to ensure your mare is ready for breeding.

- Pregnancy Testing: Reliable testing services to confirm successful breeding and monitor your mare's health.

Our equine specialist, Dr James is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support. If you have any questions or need more information, please give us a call! Let’s make this breeding season a success!

29/07/2024

🌟 August is Pet Dental Month! 🌟

Just like us, our furry friends need regular dental care to keep their smiles healthy. Checking your pet’s teeth is essential for their overall well-being. Signs of dental disease to watch for include:

- Bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Difficulty eating
- Excessive drooling
- Loose or missing teeth
-Pawing at or rubbing face
- Among other signs

This August, we're offering discounts on dental procedures to help you keep your pet's teeth in tip-top shape. Take advantage of a FREE dental check for your dog and/or cat by calling us on 9851 1177 to make an appointment! 🐾❤️

23/07/2024

How adorable are Franki and Freddy who visited us today!!!!

21/07/2024

Just like us, as our beloved pets age, they can face challenges like arthritis, dental disease, heart disease, dementia, and more. Prevention and early detection is key for helping them live their longest and best life in comfort.

As part of our “July senior pet month promotion”, for dogs and cats 8 years and older we are offering:
🐾 Up to 15% off a senior check up consultation
🐾15% off blood testing
🐾10% off senior medications and supplements
🐾Half price nail trims

Please give us a call on 9851 1177 if you would like to make an appointment!

20/07/2024

🐴 Equine Dental Care 🦷

Taking care of your horse's dental health is crucial for their overall well-being! Regular equine dental check-ups (every 6-12 months) will help in:

1. *Preventing Dental Issues*: Regular exams can catch problems like sharp points or hooks early, preventing discomfort and eating issues.

2. *Improving Performance*: Proper dental care ensures your horse can chew food effectively, aiding in digestion and maintaining optimal body condition.

3. *Enhancing Comfort*: Smooth teeth mean less discomfort while riding or wearing a bit.

4. *Preventing Health Complications*: Dental problems can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.

Our experienced equine specialist, Dr James Brown and his associates are passionate about providing a high level of care for your equine friend and are ready to cater to all your horse's dental needs. Please give us a call on 9851 1177 if you would like more information or to make an appointment.

18/07/2024

Thanks to the Cat Haven for sharing this informative piece on toxic plants for our feline friends! It's important to be mindful to check any plants you bring home to ensure they are safe for your pets to be around 🐶🐱🐾

12/07/2024

Wondering if your furry friend might have arthritis? Early detection is key to keeping them comfortable! Check out this quick online questionnaire that can help you spot the signs early on. It's a great way to ensure your dog stays as happy and healthy as possible as they age.

Click the link below to see the questionnaire:

Dogs: https://www.zoetispets.com/au-en/dog/arthritis/

Cats: https://www.zoetispets.com/au-en/cat/arthritis/

Don’t forget to take advantage of the discounts available during our July senior pet month promotion.

09/07/2024

Western Beef Association is holding hay and silage seminars in surrounding regions which may be of interest to our farmers. Please see the details on the flyer and follow the link for more information!

05/07/2024

Barry and Barbara were voted our patient of the day! We also had the pleasure of meeting their wonderful owner who is eager to learn all the ins and outs of caring for their newly acquired little lambs. It’s heartwarming to see such dedication to their well-being! We were also left with this beautiful drawing from the owners grandchildren, day made! 🩷🐑

03/07/2024

Is your dog or cat 8 years or older?

It's time for their senior wellness check-up! 🐱🐶 Take advantage of our July-only discounts to help ensure they stay healthy and happy.

Contact us today at 9851 1177 for more information!

30/06/2024

🐾 July is Senior Pet Month at Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital! 🐾

We're celebrating all dogs and cats, 8 years or older, all month long with special discounts on senior pet products and services. Whether your pet needs a health check-up, special diet, or just some extra love, we're here to help!

Give us a call on 9851 1177 to learn more about how we can support your senior pet's health and happiness. Let's make their golden years the best yet! 🐶🐱 We love our beautiful “golden oldies”!

29/06/2024

It’s that time of year again… lamb marking! 🐑

Providing pain relief during this process offers numerous benefits for our lambs, including reduced stress, faster recovery, and improved overall well-being. Let's ensure a comfortable and healthy start for your flock!

Please give us a call on 9851 1177 to order medication or for more information.

26/06/2024

A special visit from some very cute puppies today

26/06/2024

🐾 Understanding arthritis in dogs and cats 🐾

With the cooler months setting in, signs of arthritis may become more obvious in our pets.

🔍 What is arthritis in pets?
Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. It can affect pets of all ages but is more commonly seen in older animals.

🩺 Signs of arthritis in pets:
- Limping or favoring a limb
- Difficulty getting up or lying down
- Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- Noticeable decrease in activity level
- Joint swelling or stiffness
- Yelping or showing signs of pain when touched

💊 Treatment options:
At Mount Barker Veterinary Hospital, we offer various treatment options personalised for your pet to help manage arthritis, including:
- Pain medications to alleviate discomfort
- Joint supplements to support joint health
- Weight management to reduce stress on joints
- Physical therapy and exercise routines

🛡️ Preventative measures:
While arthritis is common in aging pets, there are ways to help prevent or delay its onset:
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise
- Provide a comfortable and supportive bed
- Regular veterinary check-ups for early detection
- Joint supplements to support healthy joints
- Keep your pet active with appropriate exercise routines

🐾 Your pet's comfort and well-being matters!
If you notice any signs of arthritis or mobility issues in your furry friend, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help provide the best care and support for your pet's health and happiness.

📞 Contact us on 9851 1177 if you would like more information or to make an appointment for your pet.

23/06/2024

🐾 Last chance for pet de-sexing discounts 🐾

Time is running out! Take advantage of our special discounts before June ends. Secure your pets spot today by calling us on 9851 1177.

22/06/2024

🐄🐑 Important Announcement from Mount Barker Veterinary Hospital 🏥🌿

Dear Farmers and Livestock Owners,

As we navigate through a challenging season with a shortage of feed, it's crucial to be vigilant about the health of your animals. The team at Mount Barker Veterinary Hospital wants to shed light on two significant concerns affecting cattle and sheep during these trying times: ketosis in cattle and pregnancy toxaemia in sheep.

Ketosis in cattle can occur when there is a negative energy balance, often exacerbated by limited feed availability and pregnancy/lactation when nutritional demands are higher. This metabolic disorder can lead to serious health issues if left untreated, often resulting in down cows. We urge all cattle owners to monitor their animals closely for signs of ketosis and seek veterinary assistance promptly if any symptoms arise.

For our sheep farmers, the risk of pregnancy toxaemia is heightened in situations of poor nutrition, such as the current shortage of feed. Ewes carrying multiple lambs are particularly vulnerable. It is essential to provide adequate nutrition and monitor pregnant ewes carefully to prevent this condition from developing.

Our experienced team at Mount Barker Veterinary Hospital is here to support you during this challenging period. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns about the health and well-being of your livestock. Let's work together to ensure the welfare of our animals during this difficult season.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and let's keep our livestock healthy and thriving.

20/06/2024

Today little Georgie got cuddles from our receptionist Jorgie xx what a cute little girl she is

19/06/2024

Impaction Colic

When it comes to keeping your horse healthy during the colder months, it is important to be aware of impaction colic. Dehydration can be a major factor in this type of colic, as horses tend to drink less in cold weather.

To prevent impaction colic, it is a good idea to monitor your horse's water intake, diet, and activity level throughout the winter. By staying on top of these factors, you can help keep your horse happy and healthy.

Food impaction colic’s occur when dehydrated food material becomes compacted and blocks the bowel.

Poor dentition can also increase the risk of impaction colic’s, so ensure your horse's teeth are in good shape.

It is important to catch and treat impactions early to prevent pain and complications.

When diagnosing impaction colic, our usual first step is to perform a re**al examination to try to feel for the impaction. Additionally, we may perform abdominal ultrasound or radiographs and provide fluids by nasogastric tubing and intravenous fluids to help soften and pass the impaction.

Let's keep our furry friends feeling their best!

17/06/2024

Spasmodic and Gas Colic part 2

We wanted to share some friendly tips on how to best prevent gas and spasmodic colic in horses. The key is to focus on prevention, which means taking good care of their feeding and overall management. Here are some easy ways to help prevent gas colic:

- Make any changes to their hay and grain diet slowly
- Always provide access to clean, fresh water
- Introduce them to pasture grazing gradually, especially in the spring when grass is growing quickly
- Give them plenty of free exercise
- If you're changing their exercise routine, do it gradually
- Stay on top of their preventive health care, like parasite control

By following these simple steps, you can help keep your horse happy and healthy. Cheers to happy and healthy horses! 🐴🌿🌞

14/06/2024

Look at this adorable trio to bring in your weekend!
The owners were surprised with the variation of colours. They came in for their first health check and vaccinations and were given the all clear 🐶

31/05/2024

31/05/2024

Guess what everyone?! It's a super special day today because we're celebrating an amazing 21 years of having the most incredible person working with us at Mt Barker Veterinary Hospital! This wonderful lady is basically the heart and soul of our team - she can literally do it all! She's not just a co-worker, she's a friend, a shoulder to lean on, a boss babe, a financial whiz, a nurse extraordinaire, and in her personal life, she's a rockstar wife and mom. Thank you a million times over for just being YOU, Mel - we adore you beyond words!

31/05/2024

Hey there! Fun fact - did you know that not all equine colics are the same? In simple terms, "colic" just means abdominal pain in horses. There can be a bunch of different reasons for it, some more serious than others. We've had quite a few cases this year all ready but don't worry - Dr. James and our team are here to help! With his expertise and our diagnostic tools, we can figure out what's causing your horse's colic and treat it properly. Stay tuned for more info on the types of colic and typical treatment options in our next post! 😊🐴