Wednesday, 19 October 2016

SNAIL BAIT - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW...

After a long, wet and very cold winter we are thrilled that Spring has arrived. But Spring also brings about some hazards and one in particular is the presence of snail (and slug) bait in the garden. Be careful if you happen to visit the neighbour's garden or a friend's garden as you might not realise it's there.

Part of the problem is that snail bait pellets look just like dog kibble, so dogs often eat the pellets by mistake. Unfortunately even the so called “pet friendly” products are dangerous if ingested.

There are three types of snail bait:
1 - Metaldehyde - green pellets
2 - Methiocarb - blue pellets
3 - Iron EDTA (Multiguard) - brown/yellow pellets

Tuesday, 4 October 2016

Bees and Wasp stings - What to do:

Spring has sprung and as the flowers start to bloom we will start to see more bees about. What should you do if your pet is stung by a bee or a wasp?

In most cases, there will be mild swelling and tenderness at the sting site. You should try remove the tiny stinger as quickly as possible to stop the venom spreading (although they can be hard to see). Apply a cold compress (damp towel) to reduce swelling.

When should we see your pet?

If your pet is licking the area constantly, is in pain (limping is common if stung on the paw), or seems a bit lethargic, phone us for an appointment. We will give your pet an antihistamine and/or pain relief injection.

Wednesday, 28 September 2016

Labour Day Holiday

We will be closed on Monday 3rd October for Labour Day Public Holiday.

Please contact the Animal Emergency Centre if required 8362 1722



Wednesday, 14 September 2016

CATS CAN GET ASTHMA?

They certainly can and this life altering disease is very similar to asthma in humans.

The disease involves the small airways in the lungs over-reacting to the presence of an irritant or allergen. This leads to an inflammatory response and an increase in mucus production. The reaction also results in contraction of the small muscles around the airways causing them to narrow. Both the mucous and the narrowed airway means a cat has difficulty breathing.

Signs to watch out for:
- Persistent coughing or wheezing (often bouts of coughing)
- Laboured and/or fast breathing
- Squatting with shoulders hunched, neck extended and rapid breathing or gasping for breath
- Open mouthed breathing
- Lethargy and weakness