FAQs
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FAQs
Vaccinations
Why vaccinate my pet?
Vaccinations protect against serious diseases with a high mortality rate that are still present in the community. They’re a simple and effective way to keep your pet healthy from the serious diseases mentioned below.
What do you vaccinate against?
Dogs: Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis, Kennel Cough (Parainfluenza and Bordatella)
Cats: Feline Panleukopenia, Cat Flu (Calicivirus,Herpesvirus and Chlamydia felis), FeLV and FIV.
We tailor this to your pet’s lifestyle and travel requirements.
How often are vaccinations needed?
Puppies and kittens: The current vaccination guideline states that 3 booster vaccinations are recommended starting from 6–8 weeks old with the last one to be 16 -18 weeks old.
Adults: boosters every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine types.
Does my pet need yearly vaccinations?
Not always. Some vaccines last longer than others. We can discuss and assess what’s needed at your yearly visit. Titre testing can be available and discussed during your appointment.
When can my puppy go outside?
Avoid high-risk areas until 2 weeks after final vaccinations at around 16 weeks. Early puppy training and socialisation is still very important — we can guide you.
What if we’re overdue?
We get it, life is busy! We’ll advise the simplest way to get back on track.
How much does it cost?
It varies depending on your pet and what’s needed. Please ring us to discuss cost.
Not sure what your pet needs?
Bring them in for a consultation. We’ll keep it simple, tailoring a plan that makes sense for you and your pet.
Desexing (Spay & Neuter)
Desexing is a routine procedure that plays an important role in your pet’s long-term health and wellbeing. It also helps prevent unwanted litters and can reduce certain behavioural and medical risks.
Why desex your pet?
Desexing can lower or mitigate the risk of several serious health conditions, including uterine infections and certain cancers. It may also reduce behaviours such as roaming, marking, and aggression, particularly in males.
When should it be done?
The ideal timing can vary depending on your pet’s breed, size, and lifestyle. For many pets, desexing is recommended around 5–6 months of age, but this isn’t one-size-fits-all — we’ll guide you on what’s most appropriate for your individual pet.
What about large breed dogs?
For larger breeds, timing is more nuanced. In some cases, delaying desexing until they are more physically mature may be beneficial for joint development and long-term health. We’ll discuss the risks and benefits with you so you can make an informed decision.
Are there any risks?
As with any surgery, there are risks. However, anaesthetic in modern medicine is generally considered safe. We use modern anaesthesia, monitoring, and pain management to keep your pet comfortable and safe throughout. Pre-anaesthetic blood work is recommended to screen for any underlying health issues.
What to expect on the day
Your pet will be admitted in the morning, undergo the procedure under general anaesthesia, and usually go home the same day. We’ll provide clear instructions for recovery and follow-up. If you’re unsure what’s right for your pet, we’re here to help you weigh up the options and make a decision that suits both your pet and your circumstances. Book a consultation or speak with our team to discuss desexing.
Pre-surgery
To help ensure your pet’s procedure goes safely and smoothly, please follow these simple guidelines before the day of surgery.
-Food should be withheld from the night before — no food after 8pm unless advised otherwise. This does not apply to pocket pets
-Free access to water should be provided at all times. This is important to reduce the risk of complications during anaesthesia.
-Please ensure your pet is clean and dry on admission, and has had an opportunity to toilet before arriving at the clinic.
-If your pet is on any medication, let us know in advance so we can advise whether it should be given on the day.
-It’s also important to tell us about any recent illness, vomiting, coughing, or changes in behaviour, even if they seem minor.
-Dogs should be on a lead at all time and cats safely contained in a secure carrier when arriving. We recommend keeping things calm and routine at home prior to admission to minimise stress. If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, please contact our team before the day — we’re here to help make the process as straightforward as possible.
Snake Bites in the Perth Hills
The Perth Hills is a beautiful place to live and explore, but it’s also an area where snakes are commonly encountered — particularly during the warmer months. Dogs and outdoor cats are most at risk, especially those that are curious or off-lead in bushland.
Snake bites are a medical emergency. Even if you didn’t see a snake, symptoms can come on quickly and may include weakness, wobbling, collapse, vomiting, drooling, or difficulty breathing. In some cases, signs may appear mild at first and worsen rapidly.
If you suspect your pet has been bitten, seek veterinary care immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to develop.
Treatment involves blood tests, antivenom, hospitalisation and supportive care. Early treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery. Do not attempt to catch the snake. If safe to do so, a photo can help with identification.
To reduce risk, keep cats indoor and dogs on a lead in high-risk areas, avoid long grass and dense bush where possible, and be particularly cautious in warmer weather when snakes are more active.
If you’re unsure or concerned, contact us immediately.
End-of-Life Care & Euthanasia
How do I know when it’s the right time?
It usually comes down to your pet’s quality of life — comfort, mobility, appetite, and overall enjoyment in life. If you’re unsure, we’ll talk it through with you and help you make an informed and considered decision.
What happens during euthanasia?
We keep the process calm and gentle. Your pet will have an IV catheter placed first, then an induction of anaesthesia will be given before a final injection that allows them to pass peacefully and without distress. If your pet is stressed, a sedation will be given prior to the IV catheter being placed.
Can I stay with my pet?
Yes. You’re welcome to stay, and we’ll provide a quiet, private space. If you prefer not to be present, that’s completely okay too.
Will my pet feel any pain?
No. With sedation or anaesthetic given first, your pet will be relaxed or asleep before the final injection.
What happens afterwards?
You’ll have time with your pet, and when you’re ready we’ll guide you through aftercare options, including cremation or taking them home.
Can this be planned in advance?
Yes. Planning ahead can make things less stressful. We can talk through timing, aftercare options, and what to expect prior to your appointment.
Can euthanasia be done at home?
Yes. We understand that many families would prefer their pet’s final moments to be in the comfort of home, surrounded by familiar smells, people, and a calm environment.
Where appropriate, we may be able to arrange an at-home euthanasia appointment. Please contact the clinic to discuss your pet’s needs, timing, location, and whether a home visit is suitable.
How much does it cost?
Please contact us to discuss cost.
If you’re unsure or just want to talk things through, our team is here to help — no pressure, just support when you need it.
Bushfire Preparedness for Pets
Do I need a bushfire plan for my pets?
Yes — and it needs to be in place before fire season. Decide early whether you will leave or stay, and include your pets in that plan. Identify safe locations outside The Hills and plan more than one evacuation route. Leaving late often means pets are left behind.
When should I bring my pets inside?
Early. At the first sign of risk — Total Fire Ban, smoke, or nearby fire activity — bring pets inside and keep them contained. Stressed animals can hide or bolt, making them difficult to secure if you need to leave quickly.
What should I pack in a pet emergency kit?
Have a grab-and-go kit ready during bushfire season with:
- Food and water (3–7 days)
- Leads, harnesses, and carriers
- Medications and instructions
- Vaccination records and ID details
- Bowls, litter, and waste bags
- Bedding or towels
- A recent photo of your pet
- Vet and emergency contact details
Keep this stored near the exit so you can leave without delay.
How important is identification during a bushfire?
Critical. Ensure your pet is microchipped with up-to-date details, and use a collar and ID tag as backup. In a fire, separation is common — identification is often the only way pets are reunited with their owners.
What should I do if I need to evacuate?
Leave early and take your pets with you. Never leave animals behind, tied up, or confined outside. Use carriers or leads for safe transport, and confirm pet-friendly locations in advance, as many evacuation centres do not accept animals. Planning ahead is the safest option.
Reach out to our team
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.