Tommy IVDD
The name’s Tommy. I’m 11 years old—basically a senior citizen in dog years— and November was a real pain in the neck. Literally.
One day, out of nowhere, my neck started hurting bad, and I even began losing my ability to stand or walk. Scary stuff! My humans rushed me to my regular vet, but after a week of meds and rest with no improvement, it was clear I needed specialist care.
On Saturday, they brought me to Valley Farm Animal Hospital, where the Family Vet did a thorough check-up and sent me for an MRI. Turns out, I had Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)—a degenerated disc had ruptured, and a piece was pressing on my spinal cord, causing all that pain.
That’s when the surgical team sprang into action—like a medical SWAT team—to perform a ventral slot decompression surgery. They made a small opening in my neck vertebrae to remove the disc fragment pinching my spinal cord. And believe it or not, they assembled a whole crew—specialist surgeon, anaesthesiologist, theatre nurses, vet techs—just for little old me, on a Saturday!
After surgery, I spent time in ICU, with round-the-clock care and some serious pampering. A lovely physio named Alma helped me regain my strength—although I might’ve grumbled a bit. But hey, after five days, I was already getting better so the Doc sent me home!
I’ve been home for a while now, I’ve successfully reclaimed my spot as the designated lap warmer and I am still enjoying all the extra treats I’ve earned for being such a champ in hospital.
Thank you to the Valley Farm team for your hard work and dedication to my recovery.
Recognizing IVDD: Signs to Watch For
- Severe neck or back pain (vocalizing, reluctance to move)
- Stiff posture or muscle spasms
- Wobbly gait or limb weakness
- Paresis or paralysis
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
If you spot these signs, don’t wait—get your pet to the vet ASAP
#IVDD #petcare #valleyfarmanimalhospital #valleyfarmvet
Kylo the GSD
A Journey of Love, Healing, and Hope with My Soul Dog, Kylo 🐾
No pet parent ever wants to think about their beloved companion needing major surgery, but a few months ago, that became my reality. 💔 My sweet 5-year-old German Shepherd, Kylo, started limping, and knowing the joint issues his breed often faces, I rushed him to the vet, hoping for the best.
Vet visits aren’t easy for Kylo. He’s reactive—strangers and other dogs make him anxious, which leads to barking, growling, and lunging. But my vet team at Valley Farm Animal Hospital were fantastic! 🙌 They kept things calm by sedating him in the parking lot. Once Kylo was relaxed, they did X-rays and a CT scan, and the news was hard to take: elbow dysplasia. 😔 The surgeon suggested a complex procedure called P.A.U.L. (Proximal Abducting Ulnar Osteotomy). This surgery would help relieve pressure on Kylo's elbow joint, reduce his pain, and improve his mobility.
Even with my background in animal care, I felt overwhelmed. Was surgery the right decision? What if something went wrong? I was filled with doubt and fear leading up to his surgery, feeling so helpless and perplexed. But knowing this could give Kylo a chance at a happier, more comfortable life kept me going. 🐾
On surgery day, I was a wreck. But when the surgeon Dr Klaas-Jan Van De Wetering came out and told me everything had gone well, I felt the biggest wave of relief. 🙏
Kylo came home a few days later and we started his recovery journey—four weeks of strict bed rest followed by another four weeks of minimal activity. Keeping him entertained was crucial! We used Licki-mats, stuffed Kongs, ans food puzzles to keep his mind busy. A calming pheromone collar was a game-changer, helping him stay calm through it all.
After eight weeks of waiting, follow-up X-rays confirmed the best news possible—Kylo’s bone had healed perfectly! 🎉 , Kylo is now happier and more playful than he has even been. Without Medipet insurance, we would
🌿 New Beginnings: From Shell to the Wild 🌿
I don’t remember much from my time in the egg—just the snugness of the shell and the heartbeat of the world around me. Then, everything changed. A rescue! My siblings and I owe our lives to Dr. Dorianne Elliott, who helped our mom during a life-threatening moment. She was egg-bound and needed surgery to bring us into the world.
Dr. Elliott, with her special permit and expertise in wildlife care, made sure we had a chance at life. Chameleons like us usually hatch from clutches of 40–50 eggs, but only three of us made it this time—tiny miracles, as they call us.
Under the care of Dr. Elliott and Dr. Basson, we’ve grown stronger and more determined to get out into the world. For now, we’re exploring the world under the watchful eyes of Valley Farm’s exotic animal team. Every droplet of water and every leaf we touch is a step closer to the wild—a step closer to where we belong.
#SavingWildlife #LifeOfAChameleon #ExoticAnimalCare #ValleyFarmVet
Esti’s heart shines through in all that she does. Here in her own words is her story.
"Capturing Moments That Matter: A Journey Through Pet Photography"
Photography isn’t just my job—it’s my way of connecting with people, animals, and their stories. My path to photography has been shaped by love, creativity, and a lifelong bond with nature.
As a child, my grandfather inspired my love for wildlife, sharing postcards of majestic animals and taking me on garden walks. Though he passed away when I was young, his legacy of appreciating nature lives on in my work today.
While working as a designer, I longed for deeper fulfillment. A vivid dream of my grandfather reminded me of my love for animals and creativity, inspiring me to pursue pet photography.
Today, I get to do what I love—capturing the unique personalities of animals and the special bond they share with their families. Every wagging tail, soulful gaze, or quirky habit tells a story, and it’s my passion to preserve those moments as lasting memories.
This passion led to a wonderful collaboration with Valley Farm Animal Hospital. Together, we’ve created a charity event that celebrates the love between people and their pets while making a meaningful impact in our community.
For me, giving back isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about using what I have to make a difference. Through this event, I hope to contribute to a world with just a little less suffering, a little more joy, and maybe one less hungry tummy.
During these shoots, it’s not just about taking a great photo. It’s about creating an experience where pets and their owners feel seen, comfortable, and cherished. From cuddly kittens who climb onto my shoulder to hesitant pups who warm up with a few treats, each session is a unique journey.
Ultimately, my goal is to create more than a photograph—I want to create an emotional connection, an artwork that reflects love and the irreplaceable bond between animals and their humans.
Sr Bianca Steyn Valley Farm Animal Hospital
🌟 Employee Spotlight: Meet Sr. Bianca Steyn! 🌟
At Valley Farm Animal Hospital, we’re proud to have an incredible team dedicated to providing the best care for your furry, feathery, and scaly family members. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our amazing veterinary nurses, Sr. Bianca Steyn!
Sr. Bianca’s dedication and love for animals inspire us every day. Join us in giving her a round of applause for the incredible care she provides to our patients. 🐾
#EmployeeSpotlight #VetNurseLove #MeetTheTeam #AnimalCare #valleyfarmvet
Valley Farm reception team
The Unsung Heroes of Valley Farm: Our Reception Team (Part 3)
At Valley Farm, there’s a team of extraordinary individuals who work around the clock to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our 24/7 reception team isn’t just the backbone of our practice—they’re the heart that keeps it beating.
What sets them apart? It’s their unwavering dedication to being there whenever they’re needed, combined with their remarkable ability to juggle a million tasks while remaining calm, professional, and welcoming.
Our reception team doesn’t just handle the day-to-day logistics—they build relationships. They’re the ones remembering clients’ names, asking how the kids are doing, or checking in on a pet after a previous visit. Their kindness and attention to detail make every client feel like part of the Valley Farm family.
The team’s camaraderie is infectious. They support one another, celebrate wins together, and step in without hesitation when someone needs a hand. It’s this spirit of teamwork that makes them so effective—and so inspiring.
At Valley Farm, our reception team is more than just a group of hardworking individuals—they’re the heart of our practice. Their tireless efforts ensure that no matter the time or situation, someone is always there to help.
We couldn’t be prouder of this incredible team and all they do to make Valley Farm a place where clients and pets alike feel truly cared for.
#ValleyFarmHeroes #ReceptionExcellence #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #MeetTheTeam #ValleyFarmVet
Lost and Found: The Tale of an Adoption
By Nizana Joubert, Ward Nurse at Valley Farm Animal Hospital
Meet Stompie, the little parrot with a big story. Stompie was brought to the hospital one day by a kind passerby who found this scruffy, frightened bird looking worse for wear—hungry, tired, and sporting a very broken beak.
Now, let me tell you, a parrot with a broken beak isn’t exactly the most appealing adoption candidate. Most people see “damaged goods,” but I saw potential. Worried no one would claim this funny-looking featherball, I did what any bird-loving, soft-hearted ward nurse would do... I adopted Stompie on the spot.
From that moment on, Stompie decided I was her favourite human, and life has never been the same. Every morning, without fail, I’m greeted with a cheerful squawk—my very own feathery alarm clock. Once freed from her cage, Stompie flutters straight to my shoulder and becomes my sidekick for the day.
Mirror-checks are a big part of her routine (she clearly knows she’s fabulous) and breakfast is always a team effort. By “team effort,” I mean she watches me eat while sneakily plotting to steal my food, particularly chicken nuggets. Yes, the parrot loves chicken nuggets... ironic, I know.
When I come home and park my car, Stompie runs up and down her cage like it’s the most exciting thing she’s ever seen. And when I cook dinner? She supervises from her perch, acting like a tiny, judgmental kitchen assistant.
Weekends are family time, and naturally, Stompie joins me when I visit my parents. She’s part of the family now, and truthfully, life wouldn’t be the same without her mischievous charm and constant chatter.
The best part? Her broken beak has healed beautifully! Stompie is a bird reborn—full of energy, personality, and plenty of opinions.
Today, Stompie remains the funniest, quirkiest little “parrot with a big personality” that ever stole my heart (and my breakfast).
#ParrotLife #BirdLove #ValleyFarmVe
🎄 Merry Christmas from All of Us at Valley Farm! 🎄
This holiday season, we’re paws-itively grateful for your trust in us and all the kindness we’ve received throughout the year. We have cherished every laugh, absorbed every tear, and embraced every hug from you and your furry friends. It’s been a joy to care for your beloved pets and be a part of their stories throughout the year.
We can’t wait to see you and your four-legged friends in the New Year for more smiles, snuggles, and unforgettable moments!
Warmest wishes,
The Valley Farm Team 🐾❤
#ValleyFarmVet #petlovers #merrychristmas
Lupin The Dobermann
Lupin’s Journey to Recovery
Hello! My name is Nizana Joubert, and I’m a Ward Nurse at Valley Farm Animal Hospital. My job is all about ensuring the health, comfort, and recovery of our hospitalized furry friends. I find great joy in blending medical care, surgical monitoring, and heartfelt interaction with animals and their humans—it’s both challenging and rewarding!
One of my current patients, Lupin, is a remarkable Doberman who came to us in a lot of pain and struggling to walk. His case caught my heart immediately. To understand the root of his spinal issues, an MRI was conducted, which gave us a clear picture of what was causing his discomfort.
After consulting with Lupin’s owner, it was decided that he needed Cervical Ventral slot surgery —a procedure that relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the neck. This type of pressure can make movement difficult, cause pain, and even lead to weakness in the legs. During the surgery, the doctors skillfully removed a small portion of the problematic area, like taking out a pebble from your shoe. Such a small adjustment, yet it can mean a world of difference!
Lupin’s journey to recovery whilst in hospital was multifaceted. We worked hard on his rehabilitation:
🔹 Core Exercises and Balance Training: To strengthen his muscles and stabilize his spine.
🔹 Massage Therapy: To keep his muscles from wasting away, reduce stiffness, and increase blood flow for healing.
🔹 ICU Care: Teaching Lupin to eat and urinate independently again as he regains his strength.
Rehabilitation is a team effort, and here’s what we focus on every day:
🔹 Rest and restricted movement to prevent strain.
🔹 Pain management to keep him comfortable.
🔹 Wound care for smooth healing.
🔹 Physical therapy to regain mobility.
🔹 Diet and weight management to support recovery.
🔹 Regular monitoring to ensure steady progress.
Lupin has made a full recovery! He is back to his active self—walking, playing wit
Because your Pet's Health Matters Experienced and dedicated staff using state of the art equipment makes Valley Farm a great choice for your pet’s care.
