Cornerstone Veterinary Services

Cornerstone Veterinary Services Welcome to Cornerstone Vet. Thank you for choosing us to look after your precious companions, and to get the most out of life for them.

We strive to offer the very best in veterinary care, providing a professional, friendly service with a caring approach. Welcome to Cornerstone Veterinary Clinic. Thank you for choosing us to help you look after your precious companions, and to get the most out of life for them. We trust you will be happy here for many years to come, and we look forward to getting to know you better. We strive to o

ffer you the very best experience in veterinary services. Our focus is on providing a friendly and professional service with a caring and personal touch.

Take advantage of our over-the-counters special this February and receive 20% discount on ALL tick and flea products. Sp...
17/02/2025

Take advantage of our over-the-counters special this February and receive 20% discount on ALL tick and flea products. Special is available at both our Robertson and Montagu practices.

Ehrlichiosis in dogs.What is ehrlichiosis in dogs (Ehrlichia canis)?Ehrlichiosis is a serious bacterial disease in dogs ...
17/02/2025

Ehrlichiosis in dogs.

What is ehrlichiosis in dogs (Ehrlichia canis)?

Ehrlichiosis is a serious bacterial disease in dogs that can be life-threatening. It's caused by the Ehrlichia canis bacteria, which is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick and it is usually carried by the brown dog tick called Rhipicephalus sanguineous.

How is it spread (Transmission)?

Infected ticks must be attached to a dog for at least 3–6 hours, but it could be over 24 hours.
The bacteria travel through the dog's body and enter various types of immune system cells where the bacteria multiply and spread.
Dogs can also become infected through blood transfusions.
Dogs do not transmit the disease to each other.

What are the clinical signs (Symptoms)?

Ehrlichiosis can be divided into three stages: acute (early disease), sub-clinical (no outward signs of disease), and chronic (long-standing severe infection).
Weight loss, anorexia, lethargy, fever, enlarged spleen and swollen lymph nodes.
Bleeding disorders: tiny spots of bleeding under the skin, mucous membranes and conjunctivas, blood from the nose and mouth due to lower platelet count.
Ocular signs: conjunctivitis, uveitis, corneal oedema.

How is it diagnosis?

Blood smear (low platelets, monocytosis, morulae and activated monocytes vacuolated), Serology (ELISA and IFAT) for the detection of antibody levels and through SNAP test.

What is the treatment?

Doxycycline for 28 days is the treatment of choice for ehrlichiosis.
Imidocarb dipropionate has traditionally been used to treat infection but no efficacy has been proven. 2 doses, 2 weeks apart (also effective for some strains of babesiosis).
Supportive care for kidneys if renal compromise, blood transfusion in cases of severe anaemia, plasma/blood products for thrombocytopenia.

How to prevent ehrlichiosis in Dogs?

There is no vaccine available for ehrlichiosis and it can only be prevented by controlling ticks on dogs.
Maintaining dogs on an appropriate tick control program.
Avoiding taking dogs into tick-infested areas where possible.
Having any tick infestations in your house or yard managed by a pest controller.

How is the prognosis?

The prognosis for acute ehrlichiosis, the most common form of the disease, is good.
The prognosis for chronic ehrlichiosis is poor. Severe pancytopenia is a strong predictive sign of mortality.
Factors that affect prognosis.
Bone marrow: If the bone marrow fails, the body can't produce enough blood cells to survive.
Severity of disease: The more severe the disease, the worse the prognosis.

Thabang Lehata.
Animal Health Technician.
BSc (hons).

What is sterilisation?It is the removal of organs necessary for breeding. For females, these include both ovaries and ut...
16/02/2025

What is sterilisation?
It is the removal of organs necessary for breeding. For females, these include both ovaries and uterus. Both testicles are removed in the males. This will be performed under general anaesthesia.

At what age should I spay or neuter my dog?
There are multiple factors contributing to this decision. Things to consider: other intact dogs on the property, personality, fencing etc. And no, there is no reason for a female “to have at least one litter”. Multiple studies show no health benefit for the bitch.
So as a general rule:
Small and medium breed dogs: 6 months of age
Large and giant breed dogs: 12 - 18 months of age.
That being said - letting a female have a litter before a year of age can have devastating effects on skeletal development with lifelong problems. So, if you cannot guarantee that she won’t be mated on her first cycle, rather get her spayed before.

What are the benefits of sterilisation?
1. No unwanted/accidental pregnancy resulting in thousands of animals being euthanized each year
2. Substantial decrease in mammary cancer patients - when spayed after 1 heat cycle they have less than 8% chance of developing breast cancer, that increases to 28% after the second heat cycle.
3. Prevents pyometra (infected uterus - could be deadly)
4. Reduces roaming and urinary “marking”
5. Reduces aggression
6. Prevents testicular cancer and prostate diseases

Dr. Marianne van der Mescht
Veterinarian
BSc (Hons), BVSc

Please join us in wishing our animal health technician, Thabang, a very happy birthday. Thabang, thank you for dedicatio...
16/02/2025

Please join us in wishing our animal health technician, Thabang, a very happy birthday. Thabang, thank you for dedication and soft heart towards our patients. You are a true asset to the team. May this day and year ahead be one of your best yet.🎂🥳🥳

Reasons Your Pet Makes the Best Valentine• No one gives better cuddles. ...• You never have to share your chocolate with...
14/02/2025

Reasons Your Pet Makes the Best Valentine
• No one gives better cuddles. ...
• You never have to share your chocolate with them. ...
• It's cute when they snore. ...
• They show you they love you every single day. ...
• They always love the gifts you choose. ...
• They think you look great, no matter what you're wearing.
• They don’t mind taking endless selfies.
• They only have eyes for you.
• They always love your restaurant picks.

😂 😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂 😂😂 😂😂😎😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂
14/02/2025

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Reasons why dogs are great Valentines• Unconditional love: Dogs are known for their loyalty and unconditional love. • Co...
14/02/2025

Reasons why dogs are great Valentines
• Unconditional love: Dogs are known for their loyalty and unconditional love.
• Companionship: Dogs can be a great source of companionship and can help you feel less alone.
• Stress reduction: Interacting with dogs can reduce stress levels.
• Mood boosters: Dogs can be natural mood boosters and can help you feel happier.
• Health benefits: Owning a dog can help you be more active and improve your overall health.
• Special bond: Humans and dogs have shared a special bond for centuries, and the love people have for their dogs is unwavering.

MONTH OF ❤❤ FEBRUARY SPECIAL!Castration/neuter: Cat: R395Dogs under 15kg R995Dogs over 15kg R1050Spay:Cat R800Dog under ...
13/02/2025

MONTH OF ❤❤ FEBRUARY SPECIAL!
Castration/neuter:
Cat: R395
Dogs under 15kg R995
Dogs over 15kg R1050
Spay:
Cat R800
Dog under 15kg R1300
Dog over 15kg R1450
Special is valid from 1 -28th February 2025 at both our Robertson AND Montagu practice.. To book your pets appointment, please call our friendly receptionists on 023 6261652.

Why do we vets recommend sterilizing your pets?One of the reasons why we encourage owners to sterilize their pets is bec...
11/02/2025

Why do we vets recommend sterilizing your pets?
One of the reasons why we encourage owners to sterilize their pets is because they can contract a very serious infection known as Pyometra.
Pyo – meaning pus. Metra - meaning uterus. Thus, the accumulation of pus within the uterus. This is most common in dogs that have gone through more than one heat cycle. However, some bi***es have the misfortune to get pyometra after the first heat cycle.

Pyometra is considered a veterinary emergency. Prompt treatment is needed.
Signs to look out for include:
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Mental depression
• Vaginal discharge
• Anorexia (decreased food intake)
• Increased water intake
• Vomiting/Diarrhoea
• Abdominal distention

Most cases of Pyometra happen about 1 month after the last cycle.
Medical management in breeding bi***es can be considered. Given that the dog is not compromised and that the condition was caught early. Close monitoring is essential. Some cases will still need to have surgery. For non-breeding bi***es, the treatment consists of simply removing the uterus. This remains the treatment of choice.

Dogs that present later in the progression of the disease can be clinically very ill and unstable. These bi***es can suffer from endotoxemia and dehydration. This can make surgery and anaesthesia risky. They will be placed on intravenous fluids and antibiotics in an attempt to stabilize them before surgery. However, many bi***es succumb to this deadly condition.
To prevent this from happening, non-breeding bi***es should be spayed.
Dr. Marianne van der Mescht.
Veterinarian
BSc (Hons), BVSc

Snake safety tips• Remove piles of rocks, wood, or other debris.• Keep your garden areas tidy by clearing undergrowth, f...
10/02/2025

Snake safety tips
• Remove piles of rocks, wood, or other debris.
• Keep your garden areas tidy by clearing undergrowth, filling in holes, mowing the lawn
• Clear away all the toys and tools that make great hiding places for snakes.
• It’s also a good idea to store firewood away from the house.
• If you’ve got a food source that attracts rodents, it will also attract snakes, so clean up any spilled food or uneaten pet food.
"Snakes come looking for food or shelter. So, if you have piles of rubbish, rubble, bricks, or wood, get rid of it if you can. That mess attracts rats too, so not only will the snake have a hiding spot, but it will have a take-away too’- Nick Evans
How to prevent a snake bite from occurring

• If you are in a known snake habitat, keep your dog on a lead and a keep a sharp look out
• Stay on marked trails and paths, where it’s easier to spot snakes
• Don’t let your dog poke his nose in holes or under logs
• If your dog is particularly curious, pawing at something, call him (or pull him) away. Rather be safe than sorry!
• If you spot a snake, stop moving. If you and your dog are standing still, it won’t see you as a threat and will more than likely glide away.
• If it is cornered, back away slowly, giving it an escape route.

Scorpion prevention tips
Shake out dogs beds and bedding to make sure nothing crawled in.
Clear clutter around your house – scorpions love to hide under rubble.
If you have scorpions wandering in your house regularly, clear clutter from the floor.

Your vet knows best‼️Did you know becoming a veterinarian takes SIX YEARS of intensive training? From high school excell...
10/02/2025

Your vet knows best‼️

Did you know becoming a veterinarian takes SIX YEARS of intensive training? From high school excellence to university-level education, aspiring vets face rigorous academic demands. They master complex sciences, gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, and develop critical thinking skills essential for animal care.

This journey isn't just about knowledge—it's about dedication to animal welfare. Trust your vet's expertise because they've spent years preparing to provide the best care possible.

Next time you visit, remember: your vet , your vet truly knows best.

Why Microchipping Your Pet is a Lifesaver!Have you ever thought about what would happen if your pet got lost? It’s a sca...
09/02/2025

Why Microchipping Your Pet is a Lifesaver!
Have you ever thought about what would happen if your pet got lost? It’s a scary thought, but microchipping can make all the difference!
Here’s why every pet should have a microchip:
🐾 It’s a Permanent ID: Unlike collars or tags that can fall off or get damaged, a microchip stays with your pet for life.
🐾 Better Chances of a Happy Reunion: If your pet gets lost, vets or the SPCA can scan the chip and contact you right away.
🐾 Peace of Mind for You: Whether you’re traveling or just at home, knowing your pet has a secure form of ID helps you relax.
🐾 Quick & Easy Procedure: It’s fast, virtually painless, and lasts a lifetime.
No one wants to think about their pet getting lost, but being prepared is the best way to keep them safe. Talk to us today about microchipping—it’s the best gift you can give your furry friend!

Cornerstone Veterinary Services

Snakes and scorpionsOur furry friends like to explore and sniff everything but there can be danger underneath rocks or i...
08/02/2025

Snakes and scorpions

Our furry friends like to explore and sniff everything but there can be danger underneath rocks or in bushes. Most dogs don’t understand that snakes can be deadly and will attack them or, at the very least, try to sniff it or poke their nose down its hole. A snake can perceive this action as threatening and strike defensively. As a precaution, keep your dog on a lead while walking along trails or in the mountains, and keep a look out, you and your dog should be fine. Cats are seldom bitten as they have an innate understanding of the danger.

Symptoms to look out for:

Snakes:
• Sudden weakness and collapse.
• Trembling, shaking, or twitching of muscles.
• Diarrhoea and/or vomiting.
• Unsteadiness/weakness in hind legs.
• Excessive salivation, drooling or frothing at the mouth.
• Dilated pupils.
• Paralysis.

Scorpion:
• Painful when touched
• Drooling, trembling or tremors
• Difficulty breathing, and even collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should immobilise your pet and try to keep them as quiet as possible. It is vital that you consult your veterinarian as quickly as possible.

The snakes most common to our region include:
• Cape Cobra (Neurotoxic)
• Puff adder (Cytotoxic)
• Boomslang (Hemotoxic)

Treatment:
(The treatment can vary depending on the snake specie)

• Antivenom — to neutralize the snake venom in the dog’s body
• Intravenous (IV) fluids
• Pain medications
• Supplemental oxygen
• Antibiotics if there is a large amount of tissue injury

Treatment for a scorpion sting:
• Antivenom — to neutralize the scorpion venom in the dog’s body
• Intravenous (IV) fluids — to help them hydrate and recover
• Apply an iced packed wrapped in a towel on the sting.
• Pain medication

Genius in Math 😂😆
08/02/2025

Genius in Math 😂😆

😂 😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂
07/02/2025

😂 😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 😂😂😂😂😂😂

WARNING ‼️‼️‼️ Today and tomorrow are going to be extremely HOT. Temperatures are expected to reach 40 degrees!! Plea...
07/02/2025

WARNING ‼️‼️‼️
Today and tomorrow are going to be extremely HOT. Temperatures are expected to reach 40 degrees!!
Please make sure that your pet has plenty of fresh drinking water and a cool, shady area away from the sun
Keep an eye out for heat stroke:
⚠️Excessive panting
⚠️Excessive drooling
⚠️Difficulty breathing
⚠️Vomiting
⚠️Diarrhea
⚠️Weakness
⚠️Incoordination or stumbling
⚠️Collapse
⚠️Bright red, purple, or blue gums
Please call us immediately if you are concerned about your pet!
☎023 6261652

Address

29 Truter Street
Robertson
6705

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:30
Thursday 08:00 - 17:30
Friday 08:00 - 17:30
Saturday 08:30 - 11:30

Telephone

+27236261652

Website

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