Snake season

Snakes are up and about again after their long sleep.  Binka is in hospital on a drip after a close encounter of the reptilian kind.  She has been paralysed for 2 days.  Today she lifted her head and meowed a greeting when her owner came to visit.  We hope she will be home by the ...

Loss of a Pet

Katrina Warren has created a site for people who have lost a pet or have old or ill pets.  If you are grieving the loss of your pet or agonising over a decision to end your pet's life then you may find help and information on this site. She encourages people to share their stories and ...

Tick season on again

We have had our first tick paralysis cases for the season already.  Signs of weakness and slobbering don't show up until a few days after the ticks attach. Pets are often back in Canberra before owners notice something is wrong. If you are off to the coast with your pets apply tick preventative BEFORE you go.  ...

Cortisone

Cortisone We often prescribe cortisone for allergies and immune related diseases. Prednisolone, Macrolone or Antihistalone tablets contain a form of cortisone called prednisolone.  Short or long acting cortisone injections contain dexamethasone. After 5 days of prednisolone tabs every day the adrenal glands start to slow their production of natural cortisol. It is safe to stop after 5 ...

Diabetes Mellitus

Cats with diabetes mellitus have high blood glucose levels caused by a deficiency of insulin. Diabetes is commonest in older overweight cats. Male and Burmese cats are more susceptible. Diabetic cats produce more urine and, to compensate for this, drink more. Some cats saturate the litter rapidly or urinate outside the tray after being litter trained for years. They ...

Mast Cell Tumours

Mast Cell Tumours are aggressive skin cancers and common in dogs. They can look like anything: a patch of dry skin, a raised red itchy area, a wart or a lump. Boxers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a higher than average risk of Mast Cell Tumours.  Other breeds affected include the Bull Terrier, English Bulldog and ...