By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WITH the arrival of warmer winter days, dog owners across Penrith are keen to head outdoors and enjoy the sunshine with their furry companions. Local dog parks offer a great opportunity for dogs to run off-leash, burn energy, and socialise with other pups. But for these shared […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Eighteen-year-old Leo is no ordinary cat. A gentle, wise old soul, Leo has spent his golden years basking in the sun and enjoying the quiet comforts of home. But last month, his peaceful routine was shattered when he was attacked by a dog right on his own […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator JUST like humans, pets require regular dental care to prevent diseases that can affect their quality of life. From bad breath to gum disease, dental issues in pets can lead to discomfort, pain, and even systemic health problems. In fact, around 80% of dogs and 70% of […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator AT just one and a half years old, Zeus the French Bulldog already has a nose for adventure — and unfortunately, sometimes trouble. Recently, Zeus’s curiosity got the better of him when he discovered the fishing tackle box. One moment he was sniffing the tackle box, and […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator AS of May 19, 2025, important changes to rental laws in New South Wales have made it easier for tenants to keep pets in their homes. These changes reflect what many already believe—pets are more than just animals; they’re beloved members of the family. For renters, this […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator FOR many pet owners, leaving the house isn’t just a goodbye — it’s the start of a guilt-ridden, heartbreaking routine. The moment the keys jingle or shoes go on, the signs begin: barking, whining, pacing, or that dreaded scratching at the door. These are not just bad […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator OVER the past month, we’ve noticed a rise in itchy dogs coming through our doors. Itchy skin is a frequent issue for dog owners and can often signal an underlying health problem. A dog’s skin and coat are a window into their overall health, so ongoing scratching […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator BRUISER, a six-year-old French Bulldog, thought he had hit the jackpot when he got his paws on an arrangement of Kinder Surprise bunnies, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and even one filled with Smarties. Not stopping there, he devoured the foil wrappers as well, determined to consume every […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Vaccinations are essential to keeping your cat healthy, protecting them from potentially fatal diseases and preventing the spread of infections within the feline community. With the recent vaccine shortage now easing, it’s critical to resume your cat’s vaccination schedule to ensure they remain protected. Why Vaccinations Are […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator THE start of the new year brought a harrowing experience for Baxter and Delphi, two spirited fox terriers who had separate run-ins with a red-bellied black snake on their owner’s property. These incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the risk’s snakes pose to our furry companions […]