Grass Seeds
Summer season is when all the grasses are in full bloom. At this time be cautious of walking pets in long grassed areas not only for the risk of snake bite but also grass seeds. These nasty grasses can embed themselves in paws, in the skin particularly around the armpits, down into the ear canals, eyes and even gums.
Certain types of grass have arrow shaped seeds that will get caught or stick to your pets hair. Then with the movement of the animal the grass seed will then burrow into the skin and often have no way to exit. This then can lead to the dog requiring surgery for removal of the grass seed or a course of antibiotics at the very least.
If your pet is excessively licking or seems irritated at a particular red swollen area or display extreme pain from touching certain areas, there may be a grass seed hidden.
If you are suspecting that your dog may have a grass seed injury please contact the clinic for an appointment with the vet straight away.
Microchipping Necessity
A microchip is a small device that is implanted between the shoulder- blades of a cat or dog and commonly used in horses and other exotic animals such as snakes, lizards and birds. Each pet that is implanted has an individual number. This small grain sized device carries the owners contact information and if your pet becomes lost the information is used to reunite the pet with families by easily scanning the microchip and searching an Australian wide register. It is vital for pet owners to update their details when adopting a new pet, moving house or changing phone numbers due to this reason.
The implanting procedure is quick, has no side effects and can be done in a consultation with the vet. The microchip lasts for the life time of the animal.
In the city of Casey and most local councils, Microchipping of pets is a requirement before registering your pet with them.
If you would like to check that your pet’s microchip details are current please bring in your pet and we can scan and check the register for you. Just ask one of our friendly nurses.
Holiday Vaccinations
The Christmas holidays are almost here and if your pet is going into a boarding facility this festive season, now is the time you should be checking that pet vaccinations are current. Your pet may possibly require a booster vaccination before they are accepted into the kennels or cattery.
You will need to act swiftly to get things up to date, particularly if your pet is overdue for a vaccination or the vaccination is due whilst away on holiday.
Firstly check with your chosen boarding facility what their requirements are to house your pet whilst you are holidaying. A majority of catteries require cats to have a F3 vaccination and for dogs at the kennel a C5 or Kennel cough vaccination. At a minimum these vaccinations need to be done 2 weeks prior to be accepted into a facility. These vaccinations will protect your furry friends from picking up nasty contagious diseases. It is also advised to ensure that your pet has a current worm and flea treatment before going into accommodation as these can be easily transferable with animals.
The easiest way to determine your pets vaccination status is to give The Berwick Village Vet a call on 9707-3855. Our nurses will advise when vaccinations are due or if a vet visit is required to get updated.
Did you know…….
The heart of a shrimp is located in its head and a slug has four noses! What a weird and wonderful world we live in….
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