Dog Health Library
Dogs have a millennias-long history of companionship and loyalty with humans where they have developed the unconditional love that we share with them today. Dogs are apart of the family, they show us affection and love and it is important that we provide them with the healthcare they need to live a long and happy life.
There are a few basic requirements a dog needs throughout its life and it’s important as their master you understand their needs as they step through the stages of being a puppy, adult and senior dog. Dogs should always be vaccinated against fatal disease and receive preventative treatments against intestinal worms, ticks and fleas. Dogs require dietary requirements through the different stages of life so it important you are aware of these as adjust their diet accordingly. Feeding your dog a balanced diet will keep them in a good health but always avoid cooked bones that can splinter and cause serious damage.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Joint problems mainly occur in dogs, but some large breads of cats may also suffer. This article explores the causes, diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis, cruciate ligament rupture, hip dysplasia and medial luxating patella in pets.
Laparoscopic Desexing
Laparoscopic desexing offers an alternative method of desexing female dogs and cats from the traditional ovariohysterectomy. It is increasing in popularity amongst both veterinarians and pet owners as it can offer a number of significant benefits.
Laparoscopic Assisted Gastropexy in Dogs
What is GDV? GDV (gastric dilatation and volvulus) is a very sudden and serious condition seen in dogs where, due to range of factors, the stomach first dilates (bloats), and subsequently rotates (twists) on itself. This leads to the entrapment of fluid and gas in the...
Ear Infections
What is Otitis Externa and structure of the ear Otitis externa is inflammation of the external ear canal. The ear is divided into the outer, middle and inner ear. The outer ear includes the region from the ear flap (pinna) to the eardrum. The middle ear contains a...
Summer Dangers
With summer approaching, we decided it was a good time to alert our pet owners to the risk of heat stroke. Unlike people, most animals can’t sweat and have to lose excess heat through evaporation by panting. This makes it difficult for them to cool down and puts them at greater risk of heat stress on hot days and when doing strenuous exercise.
Paralysis Ticks
Our pets love the summer just as much as we do! It’s a great time of year to be outside enjoying the warmth and sunshine but also important that you recognise the dangers of the Paralysis Tick to our pets during the warmer months. What are Paralysis Ticks and how do...
Neurological Disorders
Here you will find information about some of the neurological disorders that can occur in both dogs and cats. Read more about wobbler syndrome and seizures.
Arthritis Supplements
As our companion animals become older, you may start to notice the negative effects of osteoarthritis. Arthritis is a common condition causing inflammation, swelling, pain and discomfort in joints. There are many treatment options available to help control arthritis in our pets. If you think your pet may have osteoarthritis, please speak to your veterinarian. They can examine your animal, discuss your concerns, and work with you to put together a plan to help improve and manage the problems you are seeing.
Dog Vaccinations
Vaccinations prevent dogs from very serious and fatal diseases. We highly recommended that your dog be vaccinated as recommended by your veterinarian.
Urinary problems in Dogs
Urinary incontinence in dogs can be very confronting and frustrating for dog owners. There are many causes ranging from physical problems resulting from injuries or illness to neurological problems, birth defects or old age.
Stomach & Bowel Problems in Dogs
Dogs and cats can suffer stomach and bowel problems ranging from diseases such as pancreatitis, to the ingestion of foreign objects and the build up of hair resulting in hair balls. Read about causes, symptoms and treatments for stomach and bowel issues.
Toxins, Poisons & Venoms
All animals and pets are at risk from poisons, toxins and venoms in and around our homes. Some of these substances may be naturally occurring, and may be non toxic to humans. Find out which plants, foods and other substances put our pets at risk.
Teeth Problems & Bad Breath
Just like humans, dental disease can affect our much loved pets so regular check ups are important in maintaining your pet’s gleaming white smile. Our teams at North Nowra and Jervis Bay will check your pet’s teeth and determine any treatments necessary.
Lumps & Bumps
Pets can have many types of lumps and bumps, some of which are harmless and some more dangerous, even cancerous. As it is difficult to determine the cause of a lump without proper diagnosis we highly recommend you have your vet examine your pet.
Skin Problems
Do you have a pet that is continually scratching, licking and biting itself? Cats and dogs can suffer from a number of skin conditions that may be parasite, stress or allergy related. Find out more about diagnosis and treatments.
Eye Problems
Eye problems in pets include Glaucoma, Cataracts, Conjunctivitis, Corneal Ulcers and Dry Eye. As these conditions can be serious it is important to see your vet for accurate diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Ear Problems
Ear problems are common in both dogs and cats. Dogs and cats both have long ‘L’ shaped ear canals, which make it perfect for debris to build up and cause ear infections, while aural haematoma can create an issues especially following an ear infection or dog fight.
Reproductive organs and desexing
Without a doubt de-sexing your pet prevents the unfortunate circumstances of unwanted kittens and puppies. It also carries many significant health benefits for your dog or cat. By de-sexing your pet you significantly decrease the risk of health problems.
Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus What is Diabetes Mellitus? Diabetes Mellitus is a disease of the pancreas. Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from this disease, but more commonly it can be seen in older pets. In the pancreas there are beta cells that are...
Metabolic & Hormonal Disorders
Has your pet recently been diagnosed with Cushing’s disease? Sometimes it can be difficult to process the information your vet is telling you after they’ve given you the news about your beloved furry friend. To understand this condition better, please read on.
Seniors – Yearly Checks
Most of us know that the average pet ages the equivalent of approximately 5-7 human years every 12 months. As our pets age, the risk of health problems increases year by year. Diagnosis and early treatment offers the best chance for successful management.
Kidney Disease and Management
Kidney disease, whether acute or chronic, is common in both dogs and cats, especially those reaching their senior years. Timely and accurate diagnosis and management by your veterinarian is essential.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a potentially fatal disease that can easily be prevented through vaccination. It originally appeared as a new disease in 1978 and now continues to infect dogs across Australia. Puppies are most at risk but the virus can affect all ages of dogs.
Behaviour & Training
This comprehensive article addresses some of most common dog behaviour issues including crate training, fear and aggression at the vet, fussy eating habits, grass eating, noise phobias, stress and anxiety, and tail chasing.
Bad Joints
Joint problems mainly occur in dogs, but some large breads of cats may also suffer. This article explores the causes, diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis, cruciate ligament rupture, hip dysplasia and medial luxating patella in pets.
Fleas, Worms, Ticks & Parasites
Protecting your pet against parasites such as fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms and paralysis tick is essential year round. Once infected, the parasites feed off your pet, making them sick, and in the case of paralysis ticks can be deadly.
