Russell Vale Animal Clinic

27/11/2025

While cats do occasionally vomit hairballs or eat too quickly, frequent vomiting isn't normal. If your cat vomits more than once a month, seems unwell, or you notice blood in the vomit, weight loss, or lethargy, it's time for a check-up. 🩺

Many conditions, from dietary issues to obstructions, IBD and kidney disease, can cause vomiting, so early detection is the key to successful treatment.

Book a vet appointment today if your cat’s been vomiting more than usual. Early checks can make a big difference.

26/11/2025

"all staff and Liz are great, professional and caring for your pets" says Graeme

★★★★★ all staff and Liz are great, professional and caring for your pets

25/11/2025

Kennel cough is like the ‘common cold’, a condition caused by several different viruses and bacteria under the same umbrella term. Most dogs recover on their own within 1-3 weeks with rest and supportive care. 🐕

We only prescribe antibiotics if there's a secondary bacterial infection or your dog is at high risk of complications.

If you think your dog might have kennel cough, call us first before popping down to the clinic.

20/11/2025

Canine cognitive dysfunction, or dog dementia, affects many senior dogs. Signs include disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, confusion, anxiety, and forgetting familiar people or routines.

While there's no cure, early diagnosis means we can implement management strategies, environmental modifications, and medications that may slow progression and improve quality of life. 💙

If you’ve noticed your senior dog acting differently, it’s best not to wait. Contact us today to book a senior health check and discuss your dog’s care options.

18/11/2025

Planning a holiday? Start preparing your dog for boarding early. Consider a pre-boarding visit so they can familiarise themselves with the environment.

📋 Book a check-up at the vet, particularly if their vaccinations, like kennel cough, aren’t up to date. If they are on medication, ensure you have a sufficient supply. Pack their favourite toy or blanket for comfort. If your dog has a special diet or health problem, communicate this clearly to the boarding facility.

Book your pre-boarding health check or vaccination update today!

14/11/2025

"Transparency throughout journey, pricing, communication throughout journey, honesty and above all professional with genuine empathy.Showed a human and sensitive touch throughout a very emotionally experience. Felt we had trust and understanding.Always available to give advice and feedback after consultation without feeling added costs will be added. In short, this was the first Vet experience that demonstrated compassion, love.." says Andrew

★★★★★ Transparency throughout journey, pricing, communication throughout journey, honesty and above all professional with genuine empathy.Showed a human and sensitive touch throughout a very emotionally experience. Felt we had trust and understanding.Always available to give advice and fee...

13/11/2025

Now is the time to keep the post simple - simple kindness

13/11/2025

Not all ear infections are the same. Even dogs that suffer from recurrent ear infections can get different types of infections. 🐶👂

Cytology helps us identify whether your pet has a bacterial infection, yeast overgrowth, or even ear mites. This means we can prescribe the right treatment first time, saving you money and getting your pet comfortable faster.

Inappropriate treatment of ear infections can lead to resistant ‘super bugs’, which are challenging to fix.

If your pet’s shaking their head or scratching their ears, book an ear check with us today!

12/11/2025

"Dr Liz was great!
She was very knowledgeable, kind and took the time to explain possible diagnosis and treatment options.
Excellent follow up after our appointment and correspondence via email.
Would highly recommend! :)" says Danny

★★★★★ Dr Liz was great! She was very knowledgeable, kind and took the time to explain possible diagnosis and treatment options. Excellent follow up after our appointment and correspondence via email. Would highly recommend! :)

12/11/2025

- Many years ago I attended a business leadership conference where they asked us who did we most admire, and what aspect of their leadership was most admirable. I admire the humble honest leader. I am not sure who that person is, or even if they exist. Kindness means that we also need to trust.

11/11/2025

kindness. I read this comment, and it reminded me of a situation that happened over 10 years ago. Dirks brother died suddenly in New Zealand. He, with our kids flew back to NZ to be at the funeral. I stayed back at the vets to at least "be here".

As my two nurses were away at a family funeral, I was not able to do any surgical procedures for two weeks, and just did the best I could on my own.

During that time, I experienced two times of reactions from clients. I will let you be the judge from their reactions.

Reaction 1 - "I won't be coming back there - you were not available when I needed my pets vaccination, you always seem to be on holidays when I need you anyway. Send my history to XYZ vets." the email is real, other than the name of the vet hospital). And yes, paraphrasing for others over the years.

Reaction 2 - Flowers turn up, a tray of biscuits or icecream, or a simple pack of snacks with a kind message on it. A phone call to say "I will come down to help you out", or "let me know what plants you need for your garden, and I will get them for you."

A simple note to say " I appreciate you" is appreciated, as I appreciate you all.

11/11/2025

Car trips can be stressful for cats. Always use a secure carrier, never let them roam free in the vehicle to avoid accidents and injuries. 🚗🐈

Cover the carrier with a light towel to create a den-like feel and reduce visual stimulation. Pheromone sprays can also help. Some anxious cats benefit from medication prior to journeys, but this must be discussed with your vet first.

Take corners gently and avoid sudden braking where possible to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Planning a trip? Follow our tips to keep car rides calm and smooth for your cat!