What are the opening hours?

Monday 07:30 - 18:00 Tuesday 07:30 - 18:00 Wednesday 07:30 - 18:00 Thursday 07:30 - 18:00 Friday 07:30 - 18:00 Saturday 08:00 - 12:00

St Helier Veterinary Hospital, 2A Stonewall Road, Hillcrest (2024)

08/11/2024

🐾Happy Human-Animal Bond Day! 🐾💖

Today, we’re celebrating the special connection between humans and their animal companions—the unconditional love, loyalty, and joy they bring into our lives. Whether it’s a wagging tail, a soft purr, or simply their comforting presence, our pets make every day brighter. 🐶🐱💞❤️

How can you make a difference?

🐶🐱Strengthen your bond by spending extra time with your pet today—play, walk, or cuddle!

🐶🐱Support animal welfare organisations that help others experience the joy of owning a pet.

🐶🐱If you don't have a pet, consider fostering or adopting from a shelter. The bond you create will make a world of difference to them!

At St Helier, we would love to see pictures of our clients’ beloved pets—share the love and let’s celebrate together! 🐕🐱

07/11/2024

Today is Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day, and at St Helier Veterinary Hospital, we’re raising awareness about this common form of cancer in dogs.🐶

Canine lymphoma is an aggressive cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in immune function. The most common form, multicentric lymphoma, causes swollen lymph nodes, often detected around the neck or behind the knees. Other types, like cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and mediastinal lymphoma, affect different organs or tissues.

Treatment usually involves chemotherapy, which can help put the cancer into remission and significantly improve the dog’s quality of life. While lymphoma can be life-threatening, early detection increases the chances of a positive outcome. Knowing the symptoms—like lumps, lethargy, weight loss, and decreased appetite—could save your dog's life.🩺💊

How can you make a difference?

🐶🐱Educate fellow dog owners about the signs of canine lymphoma.

🐶🐱Encourage Regular Vet Visits: Remind fellow pet owners to maintain regular check-ups for their dogs, as early detection of lymphoma can lead to more effective treatment options.

Let’s work together to support research and treatments, and spread the word to help our beloved dogs live longer, healthier lives. 🐾💚

01/11/2024

November is 🐶🐱National Senior Pet Awareness Month🐶🐱, and at St Helier Veterinary Hospital, we’re celebrating the golden oldies in our lives! 🐾💖. As pets age, they experience many of the same health challenges as humans, such as joint problems, dental issues, and vision loss.

Why It’s Important:

As animals age, they may develop age-related conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and cognitive dysfunction. Senior pets often require frequent vet visits, special diets, and additional attention to mobility and mental well-being. National Senior Pet Month promotes these needs, reminding pet owners of the importance of recognising and addressing the signs of ageing in their beloved companions.

How Can You Make a Difference?

• 🐶🐱Vet Check-ups: Ensure your senior pet has regular health checks to catch and manage any age-related conditions early.

• 🐶🐱Proper Diet: Senior pets often benefit from diets tailored to their age, helping with weight management, joint support, and overall health.

• 🐶🐱Exercise and Engagement: Keep your senior pet active with regular, gentle exercise and mental stimulation. This helps improve their mobility and cognitive health.

• 🐶🐱Adopt a Senior Pet: Older animals in shelters are often overlooked. Consider giving an elderly dog or cat a loving home—they still have so much love to offer and can make wonderful companions.

By participating in National Senior Pet Month, you can help spread awareness and ensure that senior pets receive the care and attention they deserve during their golden years.

If you have a senior pet, please post their pictures for all of us to love. 🥰

31/10/2024

🐾 Meet Keanu: One of South Africa's Aspiring Vets! 🐾

At St. Helier, we are passionate about nurturing the next generation of veterinary professionals by offering valuable work experience opportunities to young, aspiring vets. Today, we're excited to introduce Keanu, a dedicated veterinary student with a bright future ahead!

Get to Know Keanu:

1. What inspired you to study veterinary science?
👉I've wanted to be a vet since I was eight years old! I have a deep love for science and thrive on the technical challenges of solving cases, particularly enjoying the diagnostic aspect of veterinary medicine.

2. If you could be any animal, what would it be and why?
👉I’d choose to be an orca. I admire their intelligence, freedom, and the fact that they’re not on humans' top prey list.

3. What’s your favourite part of working at St. Helier?
👉I have enjoyed working with Dr. Crosson, whom I find down-to-earth and a fantastic teacher.

4. What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉I wish more people understood the immense effort that goes into diagnosing a patient who cannot speak.

5. Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
👉Yes! I have two dogs: a sassy Jack Russell named Gracie (fondly called "Pork Chop") and a mischievous pavement special called Prince, whom I rescued from a family that didn’t have enough space for him.

We are eager to support Keanu on his journey towards becoming an exceptional veterinarian. We wish you all the very best on your journey in the veterinary field! 🌟

30/10/2024

💉🐾Vaccination Policy Follow Up🐾💉:

Puppies are the most vulnerable, so they need to be vaccinated 3 to 4 times, every 3-4 weeks, starting from 4-6 weeks of age. This early vaccination schedule helps protect them during their most susceptible period. 🐕 After that, your dog will need an annual booster to keep their immunity strong! 💪

💡 What About Non-Core Vaccines? These are given based on specific risks for individual dogs:

🐶Kennel Cough: Ideal for dogs attending puppy or day school, boarding at kennels, or socialising at training classes.

🐶Leptospirosis: Recommended for dogs that go on outdoor adventures, especially in areas with stagnant water and high rat populations.

Making sure your dog is up to date on both core and non-core vaccines is crucial for their long-term health and safety. Stay on top of their vaccines and give them the protection they need! 🐾💖

📆 Vaccination Timeline 📆
Here’s a quick guide to your dog’s vaccination schedule:

🐶🐕 4-8 weeks:
DP Plus Vaccination and deworming

🐶🐕 9 weeks:
DHPPi vaccination and deworming

🐶🐕 12 weeks:
DHPPi and Rabies vaccination with deworming
Optional: Lepto 6

🐶🐕 16 weeks:
DHPPi and Rabies vaccination with deworming
Optional: Lepto 6 and Nobivac KC

🐶🐕 Yearly:
DHPPi and Rabies booster
Optional: Lepto 6 and Nobivac KC

📅 Book your appointment today by calling us at: 031 765 6492

29/10/2024

🐾 Make a Difference for Our Feline Friends! 🐾

At St Helier, we believe in the power of community to make a positive impact on the lives of cats in need. Here’s how you can help:

🐱 Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting a cat from a local shelter or rescue. Many wonderful cats are looking for loving homes, and by adopting, you’re saving a life!

✂️ Promote Spaying and Neutering: Help control the cat population and reduce the number of homeless cats by spaying or neutering your pets. This simple step can make a big impact.

📚 Educate Yourself: Learn about proper cat care, including nutrition, health, and socialization. Understanding your cat’s needs is crucial for their well-being.

📸 Share Your Love: Post pictures and stories of your beloved cats and encourage others to adopt. Let’s spread the love for our feline companions!

Let’s come together to celebrate the special bond we share with cats and work towards a brighter future for all our furry friends. Give your cat an extra cuddle today! 🥰🐾❤️🐱

28/10/2024

🎆 Diwali & Our Furry Friends: A Reminder to Be Cautious 🎇

As we approach Diwali, a time of celebration and joy, it's important to remember the impact that fireworks can have on our beloved pets. While many enjoy the festivities, many animals experience significant stress and anxiety due to the loud noises and bright lights. 🐾

Fireworks can lead to fear and panic in pets, causing them to hide, tremble, or even attempt to escape. It's crucial to take precautions to ensure their safety and comfort during this festive season.

Here are a few tips to help your pets cope:

1. Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area in your home where your pet can feel secure during firework displays. Provide them with their favourite toys or bedding.

2. Keep Them Indoors: Ensure your pets are safely indoors during the fireworks. Close windows and curtains to minimise the noise and visual stimulation.

3. Consider Calming Aids: Talk to your vet about calming products, such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps, that can help soothe your pets.

4. Stay Calm: Your pets can sense your emotions. Try to remain calm and relaxed to help them feel more at ease.

For more information, please contact us on the following:

🏢 Address: 2a Stonewall Rd, Hillcrest, 3650

🕒 Hours:
📅 Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm
📅 Saturday: 8am - 12pm
🚫 Sunday: Closed

📞 Phone: 031 765 6492

25/10/2024

🐾 Get to Know Our Team: Q&A with Premrose! 🐾

At St. Helier, we’re committed to building connections with our clients and their furry companions! Today, we’re delighted to get to know Premrose, one of our passionate veterinary team members who has an undeniable love for animals. 💙

What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
👉 My love for working with animals drives me, and I am eager to learn more about them!

If you could be any animal, which would you be and why?
👉 I’d choose to be a dog because they are protective, loving, and much like kids in their behaviour.

What’s your favourite part of working at St. Helier?
👉 I truly enjoy collaborating with my colleagues and caring for the animals; it’s such a rewarding environment!

What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉 It’s essential to be responsible for your animals; treat them as part of your family.

Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
👉 Currently, I don’t have any pets, but I definitely want a small dog in the future!

🌟Fun fact: When I'm cleaning, I sing. Whether it's any good well....🎤🎶

23/10/2024

Welcome to Equine-Librium KZN! 🐾

We are a fully equipped veterinary physiotherapy facility located at St Helier Veterinary Hospital in Hillcrest.

Our skilled team—Natascha, Paige, and Leigh—is dedicated to enhancing your pet’s health and well-being with treatments like hydrotherapy, laser therapy, manual therapy, and more. Our advanced underwater treadmill and customised rehabilitation plans ensure each pet gets the care they need.

Assisting Dr Rourke Crosson, we also offer in-hospital physiotherapy for post-operative patients to support faster recovery.

Let us help your pet move towards a healthier future! 🐕💪

📍 2a Stonewall Road, Hillcrest
📞 071 567 5991
✉️ [email protected]

21/10/2024

🐾 Get to Know Our Team: Q&A with Val! 🐾

At St. Helier, we’re dedicated to connecting with our clients and their cherished pets! Today, we’re excited to get to know Val, a passionate member of our veterinary team who has a deep love for animals and the humans who care for them. 💙

What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
👉 My love for working with animals has always driven me to this career path.

If you could be any animal, which would you be and why?
👉 I’d probably be a cat—no one can tell me what to do, and no one can own me!

What’s your favourite part of working at St. Helier?
👉 I absolutely love the clients here; they are true animal lovers. Connecting with them and helping them through sometimes difficult times is incredibly rewarding.

What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉 I wish people would educate themselves about what needs to be done, especially regarding little rescues. Learning from a professional is key!

Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
👉 Yes! I have a cross between a Jack Russell and a Pekingese named Zeus. He’s loving, lively, and adores snuggling in bed. Although I must say, he can be a bit fickle—he’ll snuggle with whomever he chooses!

🌟Fun fact: I am eccentric; I have no filter. I'm loud and proud!

Got a question for Val? Drop it in the comments below! 👇 We’d love to hear from you. 😊

18/10/2024

🐾 Get to Know Our Team: Q&A with Sabelo! 🐾

At St. Helier, we’re passionate about connecting with our clients and their beloved pets! Today, we’d like you to get to know Sabelo, one of our dedicated team members who has a true love for animals. 💙

What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
👉 I have always loved working with animals; they bring so much joy to our lives!

If you could be any animal, which would you be and why?
👉 I’d choose to be a dog because they are protective, loving, and just like kids in many ways.

What’s your favourite part of working at St. Helier?
👉 I truly enjoy collaborating with my colleagues and caring for the animals. It’s a fantastic team environment!

What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉 It’s essential to be responsible for your animals; treat them as part of your family. They deserve the best care possible!

🌟Fun fact: I love carrot cake and I am particularly fond of cows! 🐄

14/10/2024

🐾 Get to Know Our Team: Q&A with Brenda! 🐾

At St. Helier, we’re all about connecting with our clients and their furry friends! Today, we’re getting to know one of our dedicated team members, Brenda, who has a big heart for animals. 💙

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
👉 The animals, especially dogs. I absolutely love dogs!

2. What’s your favourite part of working at St. Helier?
👉 The people! I love working with such passionate animal lovers and supporting them through tough times.

3. What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉 Please don’t give chicken bones to your pets! 🐶🍗

4. Do you have any pets?
👉 Yes, I have two adorable staffies, Stan and Demi. Stan is a real mummy's boy, while Demi is my little love bug! 🐕❤️🐕

⭐Fun fact: My nickname comes from being called a Busy Bee collecting honey on a farm.

Got a question for Brenda? Drop it in the comments below! 👇 We’d love to hear from you. 😊

11/10/2024

🐾 Get to Know Our Team: Q&A with Julia! 🐾

At St. Helier, our team is dedicated to providing the best care for your pets! Today, we’re introducing one of our amazing vet nurses, Julia, who is passionate about animal care and has a heart of gold. 💙

🐾💉Sister Julia💉🩺:

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
👉I was a Grade 4 teacher, but I always wanted to work with animals.

2. If you could be any animal, which would you be and why?
👉I’d be a cat because I want to live in the lap of luxury.

3. What’s your favourite part of working at St Helier?
👉The facilities are great, there’s a high standard of patient care, and things are done properly.

4. What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
👉Don’t use Google to diagnose your pet.

5. Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
👉Yes, I have two cats: Monty and Nigel. Both were rescues. Monty was a stray and was adopted from the clinic; he’s adventurous and cuddly. Nigel is sweet, likes to snuggle like a baby, and loves to talk. He’s very naughty!

*Fun fact:* I lived on a boat when I was 6-7 years old travelling around the Caribbean! 🏝️🌊🌞🌴⛵

10/10/2024

🚗🐾 Animal Road Accident Awareness Day: October 10th 🐾🚗

Today marks Animal Road Accident Awareness Day, a vital reminder of our responsibility as pet owners and animal advocates to ensure the safety of our furry friends on the roads.

These accidents can lead to devastating consequences, not only for the animals but also for drivers and the community. It's essential to stay vigilant, especially in areas where wildlife and pets are commonly found.

Here’s how you can help prevent animal road accidents:

1. Stay Alert:
👉Always be vigilant while driving, especially in areas where animals are likely to cross, such as rural roads, near farms, and wildlife areas.

2. Observe Speed Limits:
👉Adhere to speed limits and reduce your speed in areas with high wildlife activity. Slower speeds give you more time to react if an animal crosses the road.

3. Watch for Signs:
👉Pay attention to road signs warning of animal crossings. These signs are there for a reason and indicate areas where animals are commonly found.

4. Educate Others:
👉Share this information with fellow drivers, friends, and family to raise awareness about the importance of animal safety on the roads.

5. Report Stray Animals:
👉If you see stray animals near roads, report them to local SPCA or rescue organisations so they can be safely removed from potentially dangerous situations.

Let’s work together to protect our furry friends and reduce the number of accidents involving animals on our roads. Every small effort counts! ❤️🐶🐱

Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below, and let’s work together to keep our roads safe for everyone!

09/10/2024

🐾 Pet Obesity Awareness Day: October 9th 🐾

Today is Pet Obesity Awareness Day, an important occasion to highlight the growing issue of pet obesity and its impact on our furry friends' health.

Here’s how you can help combat pet obesity:
1. Know the Signs:
👉Regularly check your pet's weight. If they have trouble exercising, seem lethargic, or have difficulty with daily activities, it might be time to consult your vet.

2. Healthy Diet:
👉Feed your pets a balanced diet appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and be mindful of treats—everything in moderation!

3. Regular Exercise:
👉Ensure your pets get plenty of exercise each day. Take them for walks, play fetch, or engage in interactive games to keep them active and entertained.

4. Routine Vet Visits:
👉Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s weight and overall health. They can provide personalised advice on diet and exercise.

5. Educate Others:
👉Share this information with fellow pet owners to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for our furry companions.

Let’s commit to keeping our pets healthy and fit! Together, we can make a difference and help our pets live longer, happier lives. Share your tips and experiences with us in the comments! ❤️🐾

07/10/2024

🌟 Get to know the St Helier Team! 🌟

You've had the chance to see our dedicated team in action, and now it’s time to get to know them a little better! From their favourite hobbies to their beloved pets, we’re excited to share fun insights that showcase the wonderful people behind the care we provide. 🐾❤️

Let's start with our animal doctor:

🐾🩺Dr Rourke Crosson🩺🐾:

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
I love animals, I love science, and I didn’t want to wear a necktie to work.

2. If you could be any animal, which would you be and why?
I would be my wife’s dog and live a life of luxury.

3. What’s your favourite part of working at St Helier?
Employing a pet-first approach to health and treatment.

4. What’s one thing you wish pet owners knew about veterinary care?
That prevention is better than cure.

5. Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them!
Yes, I have two little pugs by proxy, and they are truly my wife's babies! Iggy is seven years old and has a delightful personality. She's a real lady and quite an independent girl; however, she doesn’t have any ears, so listening can sometimes be a bit hit or miss! My second pug is named Mazi. She’s two years old and very naughty—the cheeky one! Mazi is incredibly talkative and loud, always asserting her presence. Despite being the smaller of the two, she makes sure everyone knows she’s around! Together, they bring so much joy and laughter to our home.

6. What's one thing you're looking forward to accomplishing for St. Helier?
Finding like-minded colleagues to expand our services.
🎉Fun fact: I'm a natural redhead and proud of it!✨

04/10/2024

Here’s how you can make a positive impact:
Advocate for Animal Rights: Stand up against cruelty and neglect. Report any cases of animal abuse and support local animal welfare organisations in their fight for justice.
Adopt, Don’t Shop: Consider adopting a pet from a local shelter or rescue. By giving an animal a loving home, you’re saving a life and making a friend for life!
Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the different species and their needs. Share your knowledge with friends and family to promote kindness and respect for all animals.
Support Conservation Efforts: Get involved in or donate to organisations that work to protect wildlife and their habitats. Every little bit helps!
Practice Responsible Pet Ownership: Ensure your pets are well cared for, regularly vet-checked, and spayed or neutered to help control the pet population.
Let’s come together to celebrate the animals that make our lives better and work towards a future where all animals are treated with compassion and respect. Share your love for animals and show us how you’re celebrating this special day! ❤️🐶🐱🐾

03/10/2024

Rabies is a preventable disease, and awareness is key to keeping our community safe. Let’s work together to protect our furry friends and ourselves! For more information, consult your local veterinarian or animal health authority. 🐶❤️