Our Services

Consultations

 

A consultation with one of our veterinarians is at the centre of everything we do. The vet will discuss your pet’s history – animals cannot talk so we rely on you, the “parent”, to tell us about any changes you’ve noticed or other observations you've noticed. We then perform a physical examination, carefully checking things as we talk. Our vets will be looking for both normal and abnormal signs, gathering information. Depending on the condition we may do some tests on-site like looking at samples under the microscope, or use other diagnostic tools like an ophthalmoscope to take a closer look inside the eyes. Then we make a diagnosis based on our findings, and/or may recommend further tests.

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We do general health checks before surgery and vaccinations to identify any underlying issues that may cause complications.

 

Please always phone first or book online for an appointment. This helps us reduce waiting times. We make a big effort to see you at your scheduled appointment time, although sudden emergencies always take precedence. When making an appointment, inform the receptionist if you have multiple issues needing attention so we can allocate sufficient time.

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Emergencies

We can deal with most emergencies. In an emergency during our opening hours, you can come straight to the hospital but phoning ahead helps us prepare for your arrival, including phoning other clients with appointments and rescheduling them - this helps out veterinary team focus completely on the management of any life-threatening situations.

 

After-hours, please phone (02)97192149 and listen for advice on our phone message, or phone SASH on 9889 0289 or ARH on 9758 8666

We have some intensive care facilities including oxygen-enriched housing, i/v fluids, anti-tick therapy and more - but for highly critical cases requiring ventilation or overnight care we generally need patients to be transported to 24-hour hospitals like SASH and ARH.

 

 

Parking

We have two undercover car-parking spaces underneath the Hospital. Drive in from Byrne Avenue then Gears Lane. Yes, you can park in front of the big green garage door - look out for the white signs.

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Parking is no longer available on Lyons Road, but plenty of free, timed parking is located on both Gears and Byrne Avenues, very close to the hospital. 

 

Due to Covid we no longer allow routine entry up the back stairs, but if you require assistance or need to use the back entrance, please phone reception on arrival and we'll send someone down to help you.

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Vaccinations

 

Vaccinations are a very effective and important part of keeping your pet healthy, especially for preventing infections and diseases. Whether you own a dog, cat, ferret or rabbit, it is vital to provide your pet with proper vaccinations, beginning with a series of puppy and kitten shots then regular boosters throughout their adult life.  Ask us about some modern vaccines that last for up to 3 years.

 

Call us to arrange an appointment or if you have any questions about vaccination. 

 

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Desexing

 

There are numerous benefits when you desex (spey, neuter, castrate) your cat or dog including health, behavioural

and financial. Female dogs speyed before their first oestrus period (heat) have a 0.05% chance of getting mammary

carcinomas, but this increases to 7% after their first oestrus and 26% after subsequent oestrus and/or pregnancy.

Some breeders recommend waiting until after the first oestrus but this significantly increases the risk of cancer.

 

Desexed males tend to stray less and get into fewer altercations (with less associated injuries). Desexed animals

need approximately 20% less food when desexed so the cost of feeding over a lifetime is greatly reduced. NSW

council pet registration is significantly cheaper for desexed pets.  

Most important of all, desexing does not change an animal’s personality – it significantly reduces

hormone-related behaviours and health problems.

 

Desexed cats and dogs live longer, healthier lives and the cost of surgery is minimal compared to the benefits.

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Microchipping

 

A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and inserted under the skin in a simple procedure using a device similar to a needle. The chip stores a number that can be read by a scanner so if your animal is ever lost any vet anywhere can locate the owner, easily and quickly.

 

Microchipping is compulsory in NSW. Remember to update your contact details if they change. We can advise on how to do this. 

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Dentistry

 

Dentistry is a vital area of preventative health care, almost as important as diet and vaccinations. Many diseases can be related to poor dental health. Common signs of dental problems include bad breath, excess salivating and in severe cases, difficulty when eating. Often, though, a pet is bravely tolerating infection and pain in the mouth without any visible signs.

 

Certain foods and additives, teeth-brushing, treats and toys can be useful in helping to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, plaque and calculus gradually accumulate and dental cleaning is required.

 

We offer a full range of dental care, from prevention to cleaning to dental surgery, but remember, just as with our own teeth, prevention is best, so ask us how to maintain good dental health for your pet. 

 

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Radiology

 

We have quality x-ray technology. Radiology is very useful for the diagnosis of thoracic, abdominal and orthopaedic problems.

 

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Ultrasound

 

Ultrasound scanning is non-painful, non-invasive and very useful for determining the nature of heart murmurs, enlarged hearts, masses/tumours, enlarged abdominal organs, pancreatitis, pregnancy, bladder problems and as a guide for needle biopsies. Most of our ultrasound service is done in-house by visiting specialists, with occasional referrals to nearby sonographers or specialists.

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Pathology

 

Our in-house pathology technology provides blood and urine test results within 30 minutes. Pre-Anaesthetic Screening is recommended for all patients undergoing a general anaesthetic. This pathology test provides a 'window' into your pet’s inner-workings and helps detect any underlying health problems to ensure a safer anaesthetic.  The tests can also provide important information to help a more rapid diagnoses and recovery. At our hospital, all animals receive a full physical examination prior to their anaesthetic. 

 

For more complex cases we send samples to a Veterinary Pathology Laboratory for investigations by specialist pathologists.

 

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Advanced anaesthesia

 

We use modern gaseous anaesthetic machines and an advanced anaesthetic agent called Isoflurane. Our anaesthetics are monitored by experienced veterinary nurses and veterinarians and a combination of Doppler, pulse-oximetry and/or ECG machines. Combining these with physical examination, blood tests and the routine use of pain relief ensures a safe, smooth and comfortable anaesthetic and recovery.

 

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Surgery                                                         

 

In our dedicated surgery theatre, we perform a wide range of surgeries including de-sexing, lump biopsy and removal, exploratory abdominal surgery, caesareans, minor eye surgery, cruciate repair, orthopaedics and much more. Occasionally, for complex cases a visiting specialist surgeon comes to our surgery to perform operations. This means your pet remains under our care yet still has specialist surgery, with the convenience of staying local while also helping to keep costs down.

 

All surgical instruments are disinfected and sterilised before and after every use using an autoclave, ensuring most cases do not need to go home with antibiotics.

 

We have a separate surgical area for non-sterile “wet” procedures such as dentals.

 

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Pain management

 

We promise to always consider the possibility of pain even when it is not obvious, to provide appropriate pain control in our hospital setting, and to always recommend appropriate pain relief for use at home, both after painful procedures and for conditions that are likely to cause chronic pain, such as arthritis and cancer. Sometimes pain can also be minimised by the use of bandaging, comfortable bedding, warmth, and in extreme cases, deep sedation or anaesthesia.

 

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Luxury Cat boarding                                    

 

We offer luxury boarding for cats in our exclusive new cattery (Dogs are never allowed into this area!). Cats can stay with us usually for a maximum of four weeks, as we don’t have an outdoor area for activity. For longer periods, you can drop off and pick up from us and cats are taken to your choice of boarding catteries. To arrange this, please first contact the cattery of your choice to make a booking then phone us to advise the dates they will be departing and arriving.

 

Our gorgeous cattery provides both Deluxe, multi- level suites with private bathrooms, and a spacious luxury suite equipped with private litter area, climbing gym and windows accommodate up to two cats from the same family  hot-water bottles in winter, and of course spotlessly clean litter trays. We offer Science Diet dry foods (including dental, weight loss, kidney, kitten and/or senior) as well as a variety of tinned foods, fresh chicken and beef - all to cater for even the fussiest eaters! If you have a particularly fussy cat, or if your cat is on a particular prescription diet we may require you to provide the food.

 

Being a veterinary hospital, it is the ideal environment for elderly cats, as qualified nurses are on hand to check daily progress, medicate, and feed as required. All team members are cat-lovers - pats and cuddles are complimentary.

 

Bookings for Christmas and Easter should be made well in advance.

 

All boarding cats must be up to date with vaccinations

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Animal behaviour, psychology and treatment

 

We provide consultations for both dogs and cats for all issues including anxiety, aggression, separation issues and inappropriate toileting. If you have any concerns about your pet’s behaviour please phone to arrange a consultation. Through either compassion or just inertia, many owners “put up with” behavioural problems for too long, then present to us in absolute exasperation. The earlier you seek help the better the prospects for successful treatment. Behaviours entrenched over long periods can be problematic for both pets and people. “Bad behaviour” is sometimes a result of your pet being anxious or unhappy so the sooner treatment is administered the better for all concerned.

 

Behaviour consultations require a physical and a behavioural assessment, so please tell our receptionist you will need a longer appointment. 

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Merchandise

 

Everything we do is dedicated to the health and happiness of your pet so our range of collars, leads and harnesses keeps your animals safe while looking stylish, and our variety of tasty food treats, bedding, carry cages, scratching posts and toys further enrich your animals life. We also stock cat litter and trays, Kong dental toys, non-toxic cleaning products, biodegradable poo-bags, and much more.

 

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Parasite Control

 

Fleas, ticks and worms and ticks are an unpleasant reality in any animal’s life, but if you're using the right products they don't have to be a problem. We stock Advantage, Advocate, Advantix, Bravecto, Capstar, Comfortis, Nexgard, Interceptor, Sentinel, and intestinal wormers. Our professional staff are always happy to advise on the best option for you and your pet. We will work with you to provide the most appropriate product for your needs – not just products promoted by celebrities, pet shops or drug companies.

 

Paralysis ticks can be life-threatening so please make sure you are well-informed and take appropriate preventative measures. There are some amazing, easy new products available. 

 

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Ticks

 

The Australian paralysis tick is a deadly parasite, especially for cats and dogs. Foreigners visiting Australia are often terrified of snakes and spiders, but tick paralysis is perhaps the single biggest cause of preventable death of cats and dogs on Australia’s east coast. What’s more, these sneaky little critters are harmless to native wildlife but toxic to humans and our domestic animals.

 

A toxin in the saliva from a tick spreads through the body and creates a blockage in the nerve-muscle junction, resulting in a weakening paralysis of the limbs, airways, oesophagus and heart, progressing to problems with mobility, swallowing and breathing. The common signs are coughing and gagging, wobbly or weak gait, regurgitation and vomiting, and just feeling terrible. The signs are variable and similar to other conditions so diagnosis can be elusive. Most of our cases occur in dogs that have traveled to bushland or beaches, but every year we get one or two cases that have not left Drummoyne.

 

Prevention is available but often people are using ineffective products. Many tick products are toxic for cats. Ask out staff for our information handout with advice on ticks. Most importantly, if you find a tick on yourself or your pet, seek professional advice immediately. 

 

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Nutrition and food

 

Just like us, a good diet is essential for good health. Animals have differing nutrient requirements at different ages, and cats are particularly specialised.  With choices including maintenance and prescription foods such as Hills Prescription Diet, Science Diet, Royal Canin, Vets All Natural and Blackhawk, we have a range for cats and dogs at all stages of life. Check with staff to determine which diet is most appropriate.

 

A common tool for managing some health problems is a prescription diet. Many diets have been developed for specific diseases, and through these diets we can manipulate the patient’s health. Perfect examples of this include k/d specifically designed for animals with ailing kidneys, and j/d with multiple nutrients for arthritis and joint pain. These foods really work and can greatly reduce the rate and severity of the diseases, and may even add months or even years of improved health.

 

Our Weight Loss Clinic, run by two of our most experienced nurses, has achieved exceptional results for many portly pets! Obesity is as common in pets as in people, with similar health risks. Perhaps more upsetting is the reduction in mobility and agility, meaning less fun and play. We all know a long walk and a play with other dogs is joyful, and obese dogs miss out so much. So give us a call and make a time for a free nurse consultation. We can give you advice and lots of gentle encouragement – and we have a seriously good track record of success.

 

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​​​​​​​​​​Wildlife

 

We work closely with WIRES and SMWS to ensure the safe treatment of native Australian animals. Even in suburban Drummoyne we see many beautiful species every year which have been injured or unwell. Our goal is to treat as effectively as possible and then refer on to volunteer wildlife carers who do amazing work. If you find an injured animal, phone us or WIRES or SMWS before handling the animal. Some injured wildlife does need to be euthanased if rehabilitation is not possible, but we always do our best to save them.

 

NEVER handle flying foxes (fruit bats) as they can carry a rabies-like virus which is fatal to humans. Please do not present flying foxes to us as we cannot take them from you.

 

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Referral

 

We can do most hospital treatments in-house, but some cases require 24-hour specialist care or expensive technology. In these cases we refer to one of several specialist veterinary centres. Post-visit communication between the specialists and our vets ensures a comprehensive and continuing treatment for your pet.

 

If you require assistance after we are closed please phone our main number and have a pen ready to write down a phone number, or go to our links page. Depending on the time of day, our phone message will refer you to Balmain Veterinary Hospital or to one of the 24-hour emergency hospitals, usually SASH on 02 9889 0289

Pet Insurance

 

Pet health insurance is available. Like most insurance, you pay a monthly or annual premium and the insurance covers for unexpected illness and injury. Some policies provide third party personal and property cover. There are often exclusions based on breed characteristics or pre-existing conditions. There is usually an excess of about 20% of the total fees. In general, it is worth doing plenty of research before choosing the best cover for your circumstances.

Insurance can be helpful to clients who prefer a regular premium and would struggle to pay a large one-off veterinary bill. It may also be helpful where an expensive diagnostic procedure or treatment is recommended. 

 

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Pet Export Services

 

We are not AQIS accredited to assist in the preparation of your pet for overseas travel, except for routine vaccinations. Mostly we will refer you to Balmain Veterinary Hospital for these services. Alternatively, we can provide contact details of pet transport companies which facilitate the whole process for you and your pet.

 

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Euthanasia

 

The most important and difficult time in your relationship with your pet is the decision to euthanase. We will always be as supportive as we possibly can and provide you with the information and support to help make your decision. While planning a death is never easy, euthanasia is for the prevention of suffering and pain, so it's a valuable "gift" to give. For the patient it is similar to having a painless intravenous injection of anaesthetic, hence the term ‘putting to sleep’. We do this away from our reception and consulting rooms. We also offer a cremation service. Please talk to us about this well in advance. It’s best to involve all who love the pet and to make these kind of decisions well in advance of the day of the euthanasia.