blog

blog https://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/rss Furry Friendly Homes Wanted http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/furry-friendly-homes-wanted/ <img class="center" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage426600-Feb-15-Kitten-adoptions.jpg" width="426" height="600" alt="" title=""/>
 
We currently have three beautiful kittens waiting for their new families to come and take them home. These domestic shorthairs (two girls and one boy) have been desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, and brought up to date with flea and tick treatments. They are available for a very reasonable price. 
 
You are most welcome to drop by our waiting room to visit them for a cuddle. You might even end up taking one home! Wed, 04 Feb 2015 11:33:50 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/furry-friendly-homes-wanted/ Fond Memories Memorial Service (update) http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/fond-memories-memorial-service-update/ <img src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage600400-IMG0975.JPG" width="600" height="400" alt="" title=""/>
 
Last weekend marked the passing of one year since the bush fires that devastated Winmalee and the surrounding areas. The last year has been a time of extraordinary resilience and drawing together as we have mourned with those who have been through extraordinary hardship. It has been a sobering week as we were reminded of the loss experienced by many, and in particular those who suffered great loss, such as the loss of a house, treasured belongings, and even the loss of a beloved family pet. 
 
Greencross PetFriends was privileged to host a memorial service last week for all pets loved and lost, particularly remembering the pets lost in last year’s fires. Roz Blair and Dr Russell hosted the afternoon in Dr Chris’ absence as he was battling a nasty flu. Roz acknowledged the massive contribution of so many in the community who tended to the animals alongside us. Patricia from Wires was thanked for her tireless work throughout the fires in looking after the many native animals. Patricia was moving in her tribute to the native animals, many of whom lost their lives or their habitat during the fires. We were honoured to have Mayor Mark Greenhill, Councillor Mick Fell, Mrs Roza Sage MP, David and Patricia from the Blue Mountains RSPCA and Michelle Alber from Sydney Pet Rescue and Adoption. Many people from the local community came to pay tribute to the pets lost in last years fires and drink a toast in their memory. 
 
In particular, we acknowledge the contribution made by Caroline Milne as she continues to mourn the loss of her 6 precious cats Rex, Miki, Bryce, Koyuki, Mochi and Kira and her cockatiel Frankie in last year’s fires. Caroline was instrumental in devising the service and spoke of her heart-wrenching experience with during the afternoon. Caroline has very kindly designed the granite memorial stone that now sits in the front garden of Greencross Petfriends as a tribute to all animals loved and lost. View the gallery of the afternoon on our FaceBook page. 
 
We feel a deep sympathy towards everyone who mourns the loss of a pet and hope that in a small way the memorial garden might provide some comfort to those who grieve. Anyone in the community who would like to take a moment to sit quietly and remember their pet is most welcome in the memorial garden. Wed, 29 Oct 2014 13:42:57 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/fond-memories-memorial-service-update/ Fond Memories Memorial Service http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/fond-memories-memorial-service/ <img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage423600-FOND-MEMORIES-INVITATION-1.jpg" width="423" height="600" alt="" title=""/>
 
 
 
PetFriends gratefully acknowledges the support of Michelle Alber, president of <a href="http://www.sydneypetrescue.com.au/">Sydney Pet Rescue and Adoption</a>. Michelle has this message for owners of pets lost in last year's fires:
If your pet was lost in the fire or survived the fire, could you please let us know their names so we can make up a Courage Award for them. We will hand out on the day, or can post to you if you cannot make it on the day. It will help us to have names as early as possible ie Christian name and family name - eg. Benjy Smith. We hope to meet you on the day.
Please <a href="mailto:malber@optusnet.com.au">email Michelle</a> to have a Courage Award made up for your pet. 
You are also invited to bring along an additional photo of your pet on the day to be posted on our memorial wall which will be unveiled during the service. If you are not able to come on the day, you can send a photo to us for inclusion on the wall via post, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PetFriendsVet?ref=hl">FaceBook</a> or email (above). 
 
All animal lovers are welcome to attend to pay tribute to the animals who have brought such love into our lives. Please rsvp to Roz Blair at the above email address, or send us a message on FaceBook. 
 Sat, 11 Oct 2014 13:50:53 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/fond-memories-memorial-service/ Is this your new kitten? http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/is-this-your-new-kitten/ <img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage454600-Marsha-adoptions-may.JPG" width="454" height="600" alt="" title=""/>PetFriends Winmalee currently have 3 gorgeous kittens looking for a new home. Originally from a litter of 9, only these 2 gingers and 1 tabby are left. All animals adopted through PetFriends are fully vaccinated, wormed and microchipped. You can drop by for a visit or a cuddle - they are in our waiting room and are very friendly. 
 
UPDATE: Please note that the kittens are also all desexed and of course they are well socialised. Sun, 11 May 2014 17:58:50 +1000 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/is-this-your-new-kitten/ Dion's Miraculous Recovery http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/dion-s-miraculous-recovery/ 
<h1>Dion - Brought Back from the Dead</h1>
 
Dion is a typical Jack Russel Terrier - bright, intelligent, faithful, alert, very curious about his world and what inhabits it.
The Jack Russel Terrier is named after the Reverend John Russell, who developed the breed in England about 150 years ago. He developed the breed for hunting, especially foxes. The hunting instinct is very strong in Jack Russell Terriers.
Dion was rushed to PetFriends Winmalee after collapsing suddenly, after an escapade in the bush. Normally Dion is not allowed in the bush without being on a lead, but on this day he escaped the family home, and had a romp in the bush. When he came out of the bush, he vomited and then collapsed, and turned blue.
When he arrived, Dion had no heart beat, and was clinically dead.
Mel, a very experienced and capable vet nurse started cardiac compression, and Oxygen therapy via a mask. As it was after hours, Mel called Dr Chris Blair to come urgently. Dr Chris passed a tube into the lungs which was very difficult to do, but without vital oxygen Dion would have had no chance at a recovery. 
The diagnosis of snake bite was made, based on the history and clinical symptoms. Usually symptoms of snake bite develop over a few hours, so laboratory tests can help confirm the diagnosis.
But there was no time to do lab tests - unless Dion received the correct treatment immediately, then Dion’s chances of survival were nil.
Fortunately, Dr Chris has been treating pets with snake bite for nearly 50 years, so did not hesitate to diagnose snake bite, and recommend immediate treatment. Dion’s owner agreed to treatment for snake bite, understanding that a lot of cost was involved, and that it was touch and go, and at best a 50:50 chance of survival.
As Dion was in severe shock, with his heart hardly beating at all, it was tricky to set up an intravenous line, but Dr Chris used a special 25 gauge butterfly needle to find a vein. Dr Chris quickly gave some injections to combat shock, and to help the heart. Then snake anti venom was given. The response to the initial snake anti venom was significant, so after discussion with the owner, 2 more vials of snake anti venom were given.
All the time Dion’s owner Tania acted as the intensive care nurse, and operated the bag on the anaesthetic machine, which supplied oxygen direct to the lungs.
Amazingly, Dion’s heart started to work again, and within 15 minutes of starting treatment the heart returned to normal. Oxygen levels were monitored with a monitor clipped to the tongue, and Dion’s blood oxygen levels were maintained. Dion's tongue had been blue and his oxygen levels undetectable, but throughout the treatment his colour returned and his oxygen increased to a healthy 98. As is often the case when a pet has had their brain deprived of oxygen for a prolonged period, Dion was unable to breathe by himself, and his owner had to squeeze the oxygen bag to send oxygen to his lungs.
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage200266-dion-recovery-underway-good-oxygen.jpg" width="200" height="266" alt="" title=""/>
Within a few hours, there was an unexpected miracle - Dion started breathing by himself. Dr Isabel Brazier took over from Dr Chris, and monitored his recovery. Dr Izzie checked Dion at 2 am, and he was almost back to normal, and was able to go for a walk on the lawn and pass urine.
The effects of the snake venom affect multiple body systems - the blood cells, muscles, and the nervous system are all affected. Dion was maintained on intravenous fluid to protect his kidneys from delayed damage. Dion went home a few days later, and continues to make an excellent recovery.
PetFriends has some excellent and comprehensive client notes on snakes - you are welcome to call in and get your own copy. There are helpful hints on how to prevent snake attacks on your pet.
Pet insurance will help pay for the enormous costs involved in the treatment of snake bite - there are lots of good products available. One website to view is <a href="http://www.prosure.com.au" target="_blank">www.prosure.com.au.</a>
If you suspect your pet might have been bitten by a snake, do not delay and seek veterinary advice urgently.
Your questions and comments are always welcome.
 Tue, 15 Apr 2014 10:50:20 +1000 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/dion-s-miraculous-recovery/ Thank You to our generous suppliers http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/thank-you-to-our-generous-suppliers/ <img class="center" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage400282-BushFire-Fund-Thankyou-card.jpg" width="400" height="282" alt="" title=""/>
PetFriends gratefully acknowledges the support of the many veterinary supply companies who have generously offered their assistance to pet owners affected by the October bush fires. We could not have provided so much support for our beloved Blue Mountains community without their overwhelming assistance. Many of these companies have provided more than we could ever have imagined - a true hallmark of of a community of animal lovers. 
On behalf of all the animal and pet owners who have been so wonderfully supported, we would like to thank:
 
<ul><li><a href="http://bayer.com.au/scripts/pages/en/bayerrsquos_products/index.php?l1=Bayer+HealthCare&amp;l2=Animal+Health">Bayer</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.lyppard.com.au">Lyppard</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.hillspet.com.au">Hills Pet Food and Science Diets</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.lyppard.com.au">Lyppard</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.msd-animal-health.com.au">MSD Animal Health</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.mydog.com.au">My Dog</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://ah.novartis.com.au">Novartis</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.provet.com.au/en-au/home.aspx">Provet</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://eng.royalcanin.com">Royal Canin</a></li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.love-em.com.au">The Show 'Em How Much You Love 'Em Company</a></li>
</ul><ul><li>Uncle Ben's</li>
</ul><ul><li><a href="http://whiskas.com.au">Whiska</a>s</li>
</ul><ul style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> 
</ul> Sun, 16 Feb 2014 14:52:59 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/thank-you-to-our-generous-suppliers/ It really does mean the world http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/it-really-does-mean-the-world/ 
<div class="captionImage left" style="width: 600px;"><img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage600450-Dr-Blake-and-burse-Brit-with-free-goodie-for-pets.JPG" width="600" height="450" alt="" title=""/>Dr Blake and nurse Brit with free goodies for pets
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In our many years of experience providing care to animals affected by bush fires in the Blue Mountains we have heard many touching stories from pet owners. Emma* contacted us to let us know the difference it makes to know that Shadow was being cared for:
<blockquote>
<blockquote>
<h2>Hi there, Just wanted to say a huge thank you for all the supplies we received for Shadow today. While we are unable to have him live with us at the moment, just knowing that we can continue to provide the basics for his care really does mean the world to us. Thank you so very much for all that you have done and continue to do. Cheers Emma (Shadow's mum)</h2>
Even while still experiencing the aftermath of October's terrible fires, there are many families for whom the loss was made slightly more bearable in seeing their pets survive. We are privileged to be able to offer care and support at no charge for all these pets, and <a title="Pet Suppliers" href="http://petfriends-bushfire-fund.myshopify.com/pages/register-for-petfood-and-help-with-vaccinations" target="_blank">gratefully acknowledge the support of the many companies providing food and supplies. </a>
*Names have been changed
</blockquote>
</blockquote> Wed, 15 Jan 2014 14:17:59 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/it-really-does-mean-the-world/ PetFriends on the News 4 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-4/ 
<div style="display: table; margin: 0 auto"><iframe src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au//www.youtube.com/embed/W9m6mMm21_A" width="420" height="315" frameborder="0"> </iframe></div> Sun, 05 Jan 2014 15:19:40 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-4/ PetFriends on the News 3 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-3/ 
<div style="display: table; margin: 0 auto"><iframe src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au//www.youtube.com/embed/NGrYDtFLKqA" width="420" height="315" frameborder="0"> </iframe></div> Sun, 05 Jan 2014 15:17:58 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-3/ PetFriends on the News 2 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-2/ 
<div style="display: table; margin: 0 auto"><iframe src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au//www.youtube.com/embed/PP61LZOOGRA" width="420" height="315" frameborder="0"> </iframe></div> Sun, 05 Jan 2014 15:15:39 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-2/ PetFriends on the News - Bushfire Reports http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-bushfire-reports/ PetFriends was featured in a couple of News reports during the bush fires. Watch the extracts about PetFriends' decision to remain open and continue treating injured animals throughout the fires below. 
 
<div style="display: table; margin: 0 auto"><iframe src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au//www.youtube.com/embed/zoGxpbkABQg" width="420" height="315" frameborder="0"> </iframe></div>
 
 Sun, 05 Jan 2014 15:11:17 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-on-the-news-bushfire-reports/ The front page of the Herald! Dr Chris with Olly the wonder cat. http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/the-front-page-of-the-herald-dr-chris-with-olly-the-wonder-cat/ Dr Chris is honoured to be featured on the front page of the Sydney Morning Herald today (23rd December). 
Read the story of Olly the wonder cat who has undergone 21 surgeries after suffering severe burns in the October bushfires. You can <a title="SMH Feline Fine" href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/feline-fine-for-festive-season-20131222-2zt44.html">read the article online here.</a> 
To support the charity work done by PetFriends in providing treatment to bushfire affected animals, <a title="Bush Fire Fund for Pet Care" href="http://petfriends-bushfire-fund.myshopify.com">please donate here.</a> 
 
<div class="captionImage left" style="width: 600px;"><img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage600528-SMH-Pet-Friends-cropped-for-facebook.jpg" width="600" height="528" alt="" title=""/>PetFriends on the front page of the SMH
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 Mon, 23 Dec 2013 13:23:09 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/the-front-page-of-the-herald-dr-chris-with-olly-the-wonder-cat/ PetFriends Festive Pets http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-festive-pets/ Are you in need of some Christmas Cheer? Have a look at the recent entries for our Most Festive Pet Competition! Congratulations to everyone who entered into the Furry Christmas spirit. 
 
You can view the gallery <a title="Festive Pet Gallery" href="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/[sitetree_link id=8900]">here</a> or go to the album on our FaceBook page <a title="FaceBook Festive Pet Album" href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.631791240195960.1073741833.527678240607261&amp;type=3">here</a>. Sun, 22 Dec 2013 17:46:52 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-festive-pets/ They lost everything - even their beloved pets http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/they-lost-everything-even-their-beloved-pets/ <img class="center" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/Banners/PetRainbow.jpg" width="401" height="218" alt="" title=""/>
 
At the recent Winmalee Bushfire Community Recovery Picnic we spoke to many devoted pet owners about their experiences through the fires. We heard of many happy reunions and stories of pet owners who - even though they may have lost their homes - were overjoyed to find their pets still alive. 
 
Sadly, there were also some heartbreaking stories of tragic loss. Sarah* lost her house and everything she owned was destroyed but it was the loss of her 6 beloved cats which was the most devastating:
 
Last thursday hell was unleashed upon me and I lost my entire world.. my house, my possessions - literally every single thing that I had worked hard to achieve was ripped away from me and vaporised. My house that I had bought only a couple of months ago is nothing a but a mound of bricks and a hole in the ground. But nothing could prepare me for the loss of my sweetest babies. My cats were my life and there isn't a day now where I am consumed by a darkness that knows no light. I am told that in time, things heal.. which I know, as I have felt the sadness that goes with losing a much-loved furry family member.. but to lose your entire family.. there are no words. 
 
Sarah has long been a supported of many animal rescue organisations, even going over to Japan twice after the Fukushima disaster to help with animal rescue efforts. 
 
Lisa*, another pet owner who lost everything to the fires, grieves for her beloved family dog. Sadly, Lisa does not even have her precious pet’s remains to have a burial and say goodbye.
 
Dr Chris and the team at PetFriends know that losing a beloved family pet can be devastating, and we will support Sarah and Lisa in any way we can. 
 
Can you help Sarah and Lisa? If you would like to give a donation towards a memorial gift for their pets, please visit <a title="Winmalee Bushfire Fund for Pet Care" href="https://petfriends-bushfire-fund.myshopify.com">our Shopify website</a> and make a note at the checkout that your gift is for them. 
 
*names have been changed. Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:18:40 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/they-lost-everything-even-their-beloved-pets/ Bushfire Community Recovery Picnic http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/bushfire-community-recovery-picnic/ 
<div class="captionImage left" style="width: 450px;"><img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage450600-photo-7.JPG" alt="Megan with Olly" width="450" height="600" title=""/>Owner Megan with Olly the Wonder Cat
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There's a reason they are calling him Olly the Wonder Cat! 
Olly was the star attraction at the Winmalee Bush Fire Fund for PetFriends stall at the Bushfire Recovery Community Picnic last weekend. Poor Olly's feet were badly injured in the fires. His owners found him days after their home was destroyed keeping his feet cool in the mud. The vets at PetFriends have operated on him multiple times and kept his feet bound with Silvazine bandages to prevent infection and help healing. Olly was fed through an intravenous drip and given IV antibiotics and pain killers for two weeks. 
All of the animals injured in the fires have been treated at no cost by the team at PetFriends. They have required intensive nursing, and lots of TLC - sometimes around the clock. As a result of the hard work of the dedicated team at PetFriends, I am proud to say that many pets have made complete recoveries. 
You can see by the big smile on Megan's face just how much it means to have Olly safe and well. 
PetFriends gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Michelle from <a title="Sydney Pet Rescue" href="http://www.sydneypetrescue.com.au" target="_blank">Sydney Pet Rescue and Adoption</a>.
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage600321-Image.jpg" width="600" height="321" alt="" title=""/>WInmalee Bush Fire Fund for Pet Care stall at the Bushfire Community Recovery Picnic Thu, 05 Dec 2013 22:08:33 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/bushfire-community-recovery-picnic/ A not so happy snap http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/a-not-so-happy-snap/ 
<div class="captionImage center" style="width: 450px;"><img class="center" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage450600-David-Darcy-with-MiMi.jpg" alt="Dog Photographer David Darcy with MiMI at PetFriends Winmalee" width="450" height="600" title=""/>Dog Photographer David Darcy with MiMI at PetFriends Winmalee
</div>
 
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">
<div>Famous dog photographer David Darcy is wearing an ice pack after a recent tooth extraction. But David is smiling despite his discomfort - his beloved cat Mi Mi is recovering after a massive operation to repair horrendous wounds caused by an attacking dog.</div>
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Mi Mi disappeared on Wed night, and was found on Friday morning, in a collapsed and shocked state, with terrible wounds on the chest. Dr Russel Bassett operated on Mi Mi, and the operation was successful.
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">Now the skilled nursing staff at PetFriends will give Mi MI TLC and help mother nature heal these wounds.</div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">Mi Mi is being fed via a tube that is inserted into the oesophagus, and a special gruel is syringed into the feeding tube 4 times a day.</div>
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This procedure takes special skill, especially in building a trusting bond with Mi Mi, who is naturally traumatised by her ordeal.
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Kind and gentle care is always appreciated by sick pets, and Mi Mi's feelings of calm security are helped enormously by the use of Feliway, a calming pheromone.
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Mi Mi has received extensive pain relief, and is fitted with a pain patch, which give extended pain relief without the need for constant injections.
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Mi Mi is expected to make a total recovery.
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">You can see David's art at <a href="http://mongrel.com.au/">http://mongrel.com.au/</a></div>
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</div> Mon, 25 Nov 2013 11:59:09 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/a-not-so-happy-snap/ Would your pet like to help? http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/would-your-pet-like-to-help/ Would your pet like to help injured animals? 
Our bushfire fund now includes the option for you to give a donation in your pet's name, or in the memory of a lost pet. Each pet will receive a thank you card or memorial note from the staff at PetFriends. Just make a note at the checkout. Thank you to all those people who have already given so generously! 
If you would like to make a donation in your pet's name, please click on the Bushfire Appeal link above. Fri, 22 Nov 2013 20:11:25 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/would-your-pet-like-to-help/ PetFriends Update on the pets injured by the Springwood area bushfires http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-update-bushfires/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Please read these updates on pets that have been hurt in the Springwood area bushfires, and what you can do to help.
 
<h3>1. Register for free food</h3>
Please <a title="Register for Free Food" href="http://petfriends-bushfire-fund.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">click on this link</a> to register for free pet food - after you have registered please pick up your food at PetFriends Faulconbridge, next to Faulconbridge Chinese Restaurant, access via Coomassie Avenue at rear. Tel 4751 6388. This free pet food is to help people who have suffered from the bush fires, not free pet food for everyone.
This web site was built in haste by a caring web expert who donated her services.
 
<h3>2. Make a donation of pet food</h3>
People can donate pet food - we can only accept tins of pet food or unopened bags of pet food. Please deliver to PetFriends Faulconbridge Veterinary Clinic during normal office hours
 
<h3>3. Free Vet Treatment for fire affected pets</h3>
Take fire affected pets to PetFriends Winmalee and Faulconbridge - they will be cared for at no charge. We will scan them for a microchip, and find out their owners' details. We will also put a photo of the pet on our <a title="visit our Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/PetFriendsVet" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> - this has worked extraordinarily well.
Pets injured from the fires are treated at no charge. Currently we have provided $30,000 of treatment to fire injured pets, with over 350 consultations.
Please phone for an appointment - 4754 4333 Winmalee, and 4751 6388 for Faulconbridge. Ensure your pets are secure - on a leash, or in a cage or box.
 
<h3>4. Make a donation to help with the costs of treating pets injured by the bushfires</h3>
We have had many emails asking how to make a donation to help the pets injured by the fires.
<a title="Make a donation" href="http://petfriends-bushfire-fund.myshopify.com" target="_blank">This website</a> enables you to make a donation via PayPal.
Or you can make a direct debit into our dedicated bank account:
Winmalee Veterinary Clinic Pty Ltd BSB : 032 278 Account: 544 244
 
<h3>5. PetFriends are treating fire affected pets free of charge</h3>
PetFriends Winmalee (4754 4333) and Faulconbridge (4751 6388) are treating pets affected by the fires free of charge. So far we have given over $30,000 of treatment to affected pets, with approximately 350 consultations. Exact figures are as yet unknown as we treated many pets when the power blackout was on, and we have yet to update our computer records from those paper files.
We are treating all pets, regardless of who their usual vet is. We are unaware of any other veterinary practice giving free treatment.
We are treating all pets injured in fires at no charge; we are happy to treat pets that usually go to another vet, as we are not aware of anyone else offering this service.
Please note that this free treatment is only for injuries caused directly by the fires.
 
<h3>6. Lost and Found Pets Registry is working well</h3>
We have had numerous lost pets dropped off to us, and reunited with their owners. It is so humbling to see the joy of the family to find their missing pet alive and well in our care. We then learn that all they have is the clothes they wear - everything else was lost when their house burnt down. They say "our family and our pets are safe, and that's all that matters."
The bravery of of these every day heroes is incredible.
 
<h3>7. Facebook page amazing</h3>
Thanks to our dedicated face book mavens, Dawn Anderson and Penny Jackson. Penny is recovering in hospital after major surgery - our thoughts are with Penny and we wish her a speedy and complete recovery. If you haven't already, log onto <a title="Like us on Facebook" href="http://www.facebook.com/PetFriendsVet" target="_blank">our Facebook page</a> - please Like our page. 
Here is a photo of Dr Russel with Buddy, who made an amazing escape from the fires. Buddy has had 3 operations and is now recuperating with his grandparents, as his parents' house was burnt.
<img class="center" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage440294-buddy-and-russel.jpg" width="440" height="294" alt="" title=""/>
Sincerely,
Dr Chris Blair on behalf of the team of vets, nurses and volunteers Fri, 25 Oct 2013 16:11:07 +1100 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/petfriends-update-bushfires/ Ripley's Hidden Cancer http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/new-blogentry-3/ What your best mate may not be telling you – Dr Russel talks about Ripley.
This is the story about Ripley. She is one of those amazingly sweet-natured dogs. You know the type - big goofy grin on her face, tongue lolling comically from the side of her mouth and a tail that just won't sit still whenever she introduces herself. She is one of those dogs that typifies why we call dogs "man's best friend" and she is the apple of her owners eye.
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage200150-180-Ripley-recovering-from-surgery-with-nurse-Brittany_2.jpg" width="200" height="150" alt="" title=""/>Ripley's mum has a job which has seen her transferred all over the world. Although Dawn has never said this, I can imagine how much easier Ripley has made this continent-hopping lifestyle for her. Ripley has travelled from the USA to Germany and now to Australia with Dawn. She has been one of few constants for Dawn, and the connection between them was obvious to me the minute I met them.
The team at Pet Friends have had the privilege of caring for Ripley since her arrival in Australia about a year ago.
Recently, Dawn made the decision to have Ripley desexed (this had been something that had been difficult to arrange before now as a result of Ripley's adventurous, travelling lifestyle),
The day of Ripley's surgery arrived. It had been about 4 months since she had last been in for a vet visit, and as is our routine with any visit, Ripley was given a full and thorough physical examination.
Dogs can't talk and articulate any physical problems they're experiencing the way you and I can at a doctor's visit - so the importance of a thorough physical examination with every visit is something that all the vets at Pet Friends are meticulous about.
The truth of this was driven home to me once again as I carefully palpated Ripley's belly. Something was definitely not right. Closer inspection of her mouth showed the subtlest hint of paleness in her gums.
My heart sank- I had a bad feeling about this and hated having to raise my fears with Dawn- this was supposed to be a fairly routine visit….
As always we did thorough pre operative blood tests, and set up an intravenous transfusion – these steps make the anaesthetic as safe as possible.
Ripley had exploratory surgery that same day and we discovered a bleeding mass in her spleen almost 1kg in weight.
Amazingly the only vague symptom she had shown in the week or two leading up to her vet visit, was that she had eaten a few of her meals a little more slowly than usual.
I am constantly reminded in my job that dogs are pack animals. Showing signs of sickness or weakness in a pack environment is not a good idea- it is more likely to result in your being kicked out rather than being sympathised with by your pack-mates.
The result is that most dogs are programmed to give very little away- even when they are quite seriously ill (as in Ripley's case). 
This can make our jobs as veterinarians challenging. It also means that quiet often, by the time an owner realises that something is amiss with their dog or cat, things are often more advanced than is ideal.
The take-home message for me, is that if you suspect that there is something amiss with your best mate, there probably is…. 
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage200150-Ripley-Enlarged-Spleen-with-Mass.JPG" width="200" height="150" alt="" title=""/>In Ripley's case we were quite lucky in some respects. We removed a very dangerous tumour before it had had an opportunity to bleed to the point of life-threatening blood loss (this is how most patients with tumours of their spleens have their illness diagnosed- they normally arrive at the surgery collapsed with a belly full of blood- not a good point to discover the problem).
Ripley has recovered wonderfully from her surgery and was back home, eating and wagging her tail within 3 days of her surgery.
Sadly, Ripley's tumour has turned out to be malignant. While the surgery has staved off an impending life threatening bleed, our concern now, is the very real risk that there has been microscopic spread of the tumour to Ripley's other organs.
This is not something that Dawn or Ripley will be accepting without a fight. Ripley has been started on medical treatment which will hopefully significantly improve her outlook.
Chemotherapy in pets is totally different to chemotherapy in people. While the basic treatment is similar, the dose and duration for pets is much less, and pets usually cope with their treatment with very little distress or pain. Intelligent dogs like Ripley, with close bonds to their owners usually cope very well.
See the video of Dr Russel and Nurse Marsha dressed in their space suits giving Ripley her chemo –<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSYNJHv1Ui0&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"> click here to view.</a>
She and Dawn are receiving lots of positive thoughts from all the team at Pet Friends. We will be updating our Facebook page regularly with Ripley's progress. If you would like to leave some words of encouragement for them, I'm sure it would be appreciated by both Dawn and Ripley.
Sincerely
Dr Russel Bassett. Sat, 07 Sep 2013 19:32:11 +1000 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/new-blogentry-3/ Ticks are now active all year round http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/ticks-are-now-active-all-year-round/ In recent years ticks have become active in winter, so you must use tick protection all year round. In August 2013 we say a cat from the Faulconbridge area that had 3 mature paralysis ticks on it - see photo of cat with tick on nose. Both dogs and cats need year round tick protection, but there are many products you must not use on your cat. Protecting your cat against ticks is a tricky situation - many of the very effective products that are safe and effective in protecting dogs from ticks are poisonous to cats.
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage200179-tick-on-eye.jpg" width="200" height="179" alt="" title=""/>PetFriends only prescribes pet care products that are safe and effective, and pet owners are always upset and surprised to discover that the product they bought from the pet shop or supermarket does not fulfil their pet's needs.
Even worse is when the client discovers that the strong and confident recommendation by the young shop assistant at the pet shop for tick prevention was really the totally wrong advice. The caring client left the pet shop with a tick prevention product that was toxic to the family cats. Here is a photo of 2 large ticks on the cat in addition to the tick on the nose. Petfriends vets and nurses are highly skilled and experienced in treating tick paralyis and this cat is making a good recovery.
The most effective tick prevention products for dogs are toxic to cats, and will kill cats. Here are 3 mature adult ticks removed from a stray cat from Faulconbridge in August 2013 beside a two dollar coin to show the relative size of a mature engorged tick.
<img class="left" src="https://petfriendsvet.com.au/assets/Uploads/Clients/133/_resampled/resizedimage200177-Engorged-ticks-with-dollar-coin-Max-qual-med-size.jpg" width="200" height="177" alt="" title=""/>
If you want the right advice, for the right product, at the right dose, at the right price, please call in at our offices at Faulconbridge and Winmalee to discuss your pet's flea and tick prevention, heart worm prevention, as well as their regular worming. We prefer to discuss this face to face, and not over the phone, as we have the legal requirement to document all our recommendations.
It is scandalous that the registration of pet products in Australia allows antiquated and ineffective products to be sold to unsuspecting pet owners. If you want what is best for your pet ask the pet care experts at PetFriends. We do not give telephone advice on tick protection as a face to face conversation is needed. Wed, 07 Aug 2013 11:29:41 +1000 http://petfriendsvet.com.au/blog/ticks-are-now-active-all-year-round/