By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WE are often asked “should I take my dog to the off-leash dog park?”. These popular community spaces offer dogs the chance to exercise, explore and socialise, but they’re not the right fit for every dog. Understanding both the benefits and the potential risks can help you […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator GROWING older brings many changes for our canine companions. While it is normal for senior dogs to slow down physically, some may also experience changes in their mental function. This condition, known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), is often compared to dementia in humans and can affect […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WINTER can be a time that leaves many of us feeling under the weather, and our pets are no different. Whilst dogs and cats may have fur coats, they can still feel the effects of colder temperatures and changes in routine. As the days become shorter and […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator MANY cat owners have heard the term feline panleukopenia, sometimes called feline parvovirus, but few realise just how dangerous this disease can be until cases begin appearing in their own community. In recent weeks, veterinary clinics throughout Western Sydney have seen a noticeable increase in infections, highlighting […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator AS the mornings become cooler and winter approaches, many pet owners notice subtle changes in their pets’ behaviour and mobility. While we might simply pull on a jumper to combat the cold, cooler temperatures can have a much bigger impact on pets living with arthritis and joint […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator HOT spots—also known as acute moist dermatitis—can begin as a minor irritation but escalate quickly into a painful skin condition. These red, inflamed, often oozing lesions are commonly seen on the head, hips, and legs, although they can develop anywhere on the body. Without early intervention, a […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator IN recent years, concerns about vaccine availability and the pressure of rising living costs have led some pet owners to delay their dog’s routine boosters. However, keeping vaccinations up to date remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect dogs from serious – and […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator THE team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital has proudly joined forces with the RSPCA Outreach team, travelling across regional New South Wales to deliver essential veterinary services to communities in need. This joint collaboration between RSPCA NSW, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, Animal Rescue Cooperative and local councils […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator RABBIT owners across Greater Sydney and the Central Coast are being urged to prepare ahead of the NSW Government’s planned release of the RHDV1-K5 calicivirus strain in early March 2026. While this initiative aims to control wild rabbit populations and safeguard agriculture and native bushland, it also […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator FOR many Australians, dogs are more than pets — they are family. From loyal companions curled up at our feet to energetic puppies racing across the backyard, dogs bring joy, comfort and connection to our lives. But behind the scenes, not all dogs have the same story. […]