By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WHILE April 25 is a day of national remembrance for Australians and New Zealanders who served and gave their lives in times of conflict, peacekeeping operations and war, there’s a lesser-known story we don’t always tell on ANZAC Day. That of the service animals who stood alongside […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator AS Easter approaches, among the joyous celebrations and family gatherings, it’s important to remember that this festive occasion can pose serious risks to our furry companions. Whilst we indulge in chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, and sweet treats, our pets may unwittingly encounter hazards that could turn […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Our homes are enriched by the comforting presence of our furry companions, who, over the years, have bestowed upon us a profound gift – a lifetime of unwavering love. As our pets gracefully transition into their golden years, it becomes our noble duty to repay their loyalty […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Dementia in dogs, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) or cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), is a heartbreaking reality for many pet owners. Just like humans, our canine companions can experience cognitive decline as they age, leading to a range of behavioural changes and challenges. Recognising the […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator. MICROCHIPPING is a crucial step towards ensuring your pets safety and well-being. This simple procedure involves implanting a tiny microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult and emotional experience that pet owners may face at some point in their journey of companionship. The decision to opt for pet euthanasia is undoubtedly one of the most heart-wrenching choices, marked by a profound sense of […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WITH the recent rains, we begin to see an increase in the number of pets ingesting wild mushrooms. Australia and New Zealand are home to over 10,000 mushroom species and whilst only a small percentage of these are known to be poisonous, all mushroom ingestions should be […]

THE New Year is the perfect time for setting goals and starting afresh. And whilst setting goals for ourselves such as losing weight, getting more exercise or eating less are all worthy ambitions, our pets are often overlooked in our New Year resolutions. And with the love and joy that they bring us every day, […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator WITH Christmas fast approaching, we would like you and your pets to enjoy the holiday season. Unfortunately, there are hidden dangers. Christmas food, people, parties and changes in routine. You may not be able to supervise your pet as much as usual and at this time of […]

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator Due to complicated supply problems post-COVID, there is currently a shortage of feline vaccines in Australia, and this is expected to continue until early 2024. This has already had a major impact on shelters, with some having to close their doors to new cat and kitten admissions. […]