August 2023

We all want what’s best for our feathery, scaly, or furry pals as pet owners. Responsible pet ownership requires that you understand when to take your animal to the veterinarian. Over the past 35 years, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital, a reputable organisation, has assisted numerous pet owners in choosing the best care for their cherished animals. Here, we’ll go over the telltale symptoms and indicators that point to the need for a vet appointment with your beloved pet.

Modifications and shifts to Eating and Drinking Patterns

An early sign of a health problem may be noticeable changes in your pet’s appetite or water intake. It’s time to contact with the experts at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital if you discover that your pet is eating or drinking more or less than usual or completely refusing meals.

Loss of Energy and Lethargy

Lethargy, or a sudden or unexpected drop in energy levels, may be a sign that your pet is ill. Consider consulting a veterinarian for urgent guidance if your usually energetic pet is currently sleeping more than usual or shows little interest in games or walks. Any problem must be identified early.

diarrhoea and vomiting

In pets, occasional vomiting or diarrhoea is not unusual. It’s time to seek veterinarian attention if your pet gets frequent or severe bouts, or if the vomiting or diarrhoea is followed by other symptoms. Dehydration and other problems might result from frequent vomiting and diarrhoea.

persistent sneezing, coughing, or trouble breathing

Sneezing and coughing are signs of a number of conditions, such as allergies or infections of the respiratory tract. To make sure your best friend is taken care of as soon as possible, it may be time to seek professional advice and treatment if your pet’s coughing or sneezing is ongoing, accompanied by breathing problems, or results in mucus or blood.

Unexpected Weight Gain or Loss

Your pet’s sudden or unexpected weight gain or reduction may indicate a serious medical condition. Consult with the experts at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital to identify the cause and create a specialised and highly personalised treatment plan if you observe any substantial changes in your pet’s weight.

Abrupt changes in personality or behaviour

Changes in your pet’s behaviour, such as increased aggression, nervousness, or depression, may be a sign of a more serious problem. Consider consulting a veterinarian if your pet’s behaviour changes significantly or abruptly. Your pet should consult a behaviour specialist to address these problems.

Skin Conditions, Lumps, or Wounds

Check your pet frequently for any lumps, bumps, or skin irritations that are developing or changing. It’s crucial to seek veterinarian care to identify the reason and administer the proper medication if you discover a suspicious lump or notice any open sores, rashes, or regions of hair loss in your pet.

Our team of knowledgeable experts at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is aware of the connection that exists between you and your pet. For 35 years and counting, we have assisted pet owners in making the greatest choices for their animal companions. Please get in touch with us if you see any of these signs in your pet or have any questions regarding their health. Early detection and treatment can help to a great extent to ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy for years to come.

Our cherished dogs’ requirements and needs for care alter as they age. To ensure that they maintain a healthy and full life during all periods of their lives, it is imperative that they adjust to these changes. Liverpool Veterinary Hospital, one of the top animal hospitals favoured by pet lovers for more than 35 years, is available to offer insightful advice on how to support your dog as they age.

Plan routine veterinary examinations:

As your dog ages, routine veterinary examinations become even more important. These checkups enable your doctor to keep tabs on your dog’s general health, see any early warning signs of problems, and suggest the best preventative measures or treatments. Make sure your senior dog receives a thorough examination at least once per year, or more frequently if your veterinarian so recommends.

Adapt their food and nutrition:

Older dogs have different nutritional requirements than younger dogs. They frequently need less calories to maintain a healthy weight, and they may gain from particular nutrients that enhance joint health, cognitive function, and general wellbeing. To choose the appropriate diet and supplements for your cherished pet, speak with your veterinarian.

Keep a healthy weight:

Conditions involving joint troubles, heart disease, and diabetes can all be made worse by obesity, which can also lead to new conditions. By giving your senior dog a balanced food and regular exercise catered to their abilities and energy levels, you may help them maintain a healthy weight. This is an excellent strategy for preventing mobility problems and lowering the impact on activity levels.

Adapt your dog’s exercise regimen:

Your dog’s exercise requirements and capabilities may change as they mature. It’s crucial to modify their fitness regimen to account for any potential physical restrictions or health problems. Concentrate on low-impact exercises that support their mobility and general health without putting them under stress or discomfort, such as leisurely strolls or swimming. This is an excellent technique to guarantee that joint pain and inflammation are maintained to an absolute minimum to prevent discomfort.

Prioritise mental stimulation:

Cognitive decline is a prevalent problem in ageing dogs, but by offering mental stimulation and enrichment, you can assist halt this process. To keep your dog’s mind engaged and to support cognitive health, involve them in interactive activities, puzzle toys, and novel experiences. An illustration might be food-related games and activities, or treats in a durable slow-release toy to keep them interested for a long time.

Make your home pleasant for senior dogs, who may experience movement issues, arthritis, or other age-related discomforts. Provide orthopaedic or heated pet beds, non-slip flooring, and easy access to food, drink, and rest spots to make their living space as comfortable as you can. Continually evaluate your dog’s comfort and make necessary adjustments.

Keep an eye out for indications of pain or discomfort in your dog. Arthritis or other health problems may cause pain or discomfort in older dogs. Keep a close look out for indications of pain in your dog, such as limping, stiffness, or unwillingness to move. Consult your veterinarian for the best pain management alternatives if you detect any changes.

Giving your dog the attention, care, and flexibility they need as they age is important. You may assist your ageing dog’s health and well-being by setting up regular veterinary checkups, modifying their diet and exercise regimen, and setting up a comfortable living environment. As always, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is here to offer knowledgeable direction, encouragement, and top-notch care for your precious friends at every stage of their life. Call us today for professional advice.

Despite how important it is to your pet’s overall health, dental cleanliness is sometimes disregarded. Contrary to popular perception, foul breath in dogs and cats might indicate dental problems that need to be taken care of.

Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to offering helpful advice on maintaining correct dental hygiene for your furry companions and preserving their long-term health and well-being.

Recognise the significance of dental care: In dogs and cats, poor dental care can result in periodontal disease, tooth loss, and even systemic infections. By giving your pet’s dental care top priority, you can avoid these problems and enhance their general quality of life, wellbeing, and longevity.

Start with routine veterinarian examinations:

Make arrangements for your pet to receive routine medical care from the vet, which should include dental checks. Your veterinarian can spot any early indications of oral problems and suggest the proper treatment or prevention measures. Additionally, they may provide advice on how to practise good dental care at home.

Implement at-home dental care: Maintaining your pet’s oral health requires creating a regimen for dental care at home. Using a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets, begin by teaching your pet how to brush its teeth. Brushing your pet’s teeth once a day or as often as your veterinarian advises should be done gradually. It could take some time for your pet to become used to the procedure, so be patient and kind.

Examine dental chews and toys:

These items can be used as a further tool to maintain your pet’s dental health. These goods are intended to promote gum health and aid in the removal of plaque and tartar buildup. They shouldn’t, however, be used in place of routine dental brushing. For advice on appropriate dental chews and toys for your pet, speak with your veterinarian.

Take into account professional dental cleanings:

Your veterinarian could advise professional dental cleanings based on the oral health of your pet. The complete examination and cleaning of your pet’s teeth and gums are made possible by these cleanings, which are carried out under general anaesthesia. Regular professional cleanings can improve your pet’s overall health and help prevent more serious dental problems.

Keep an eye out for your pet’s foul breath, excessive drooling, trouble eating, pawing at the mouth, or obvious tartar accumulation as symptoms that they may have dental problems. Consult your veterinarian right away to get a comprehensive dental examination if you experience any of these signs.

For your dogs and cats’ long-term health and wellbeing, proper dental hygiene is crucial. You can make sure your pet’s oral health is kept in good shape by setting up routine veterinary check-ups, implementing at-home dental care, and keeping an eye out for indicators of dental problems. Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is here to offer knowledgeable advice, reassurance, and high quality treatment for your loving pet. To begin your journey with LVH, get in touch with us right away!

Your pet may need to switch to a new food at some point, whether it’s because of dietary restrictions, ageing, or personal preference. For more than 35 years, we at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital have offered knowledgeable guidance and first-rate care for animals. The entire health and quality of life of your pet are greatly influenced by their nutrition. We guide you through a few simple tips to help you transition your pet to a new diet in a stress-free and easy way for both you and your beloved pet.

Consult your veterinarian: It’s crucial that you talk with your veterinarian before making any changes to diets for your pet. Based on your pet’s age, breed, health, and dietary demands, they can offer expert advice on the best food options. In order to limit potential gastrointestinal problems and irritations, they can also suggest a suitable transition timeline.

Pick a high-quality food: When picking out a new food for your pet, it’s crucial to go with a high-quality, nutrient-rich selection. Your veterinarian can assist you in finding a diet that is appropriate and matches the particular requirements of your pet. The gold standard for feeding and caring for your pet is thought to be food made from naturally sourced materials.

Introduce the new food gradually over an interval of anywhere from seven to ten days in order to reduce the possibility of digestive problems. As you gradually increase the proportion of the new food while reducing the amount of the old meal each day, start by blending a little amount of the new food with your pet’s current food. By introducing the new ingredients gradually, you’ll give your pet’s digestive system time to get used to them and avoid potential problems like vomiting or diarrhoea.

Keep a close eye on your pet’s response: Keep a close eye on your pet’s response to the new food during the transition period. Watch out for any signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. Consult your veterinarian for advice if your pet demonstrates any negative reactions. They can advise easing into the change or trying a different food.

Be persistent and patient:

Introducing a new food to your pet can be a gradual process, so persistence and patience are crucial. Do not accelerate the switching process; doing so can raise the risk of stomach problems. Instead, follow the suggested transition timeline. Keep in mind that some animals may require a longer period to adjust to a new food, so be ready to be adaptive if necessary.

It might be tricky to get your pet used to a new diet, but with Liverpool Veterinary Hospital’s assistance, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free for both you and your pet. With the help of your veterinarian, a high-quality food, and a gradual introduction of the new food, you may help your pet get used to their new diet while reducing the possibility of digestive problems.

Get in touch with us today on (02) 9602 6015 to speak to an expert for more information.

A new baby is a joyous occasion for the entire family, even your four-legged family members. For more than 35 years, we at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital have been committed to giving your dog and other pets the best care possible. We delve deeper into the process of introducing your bundle of joy to your dog to ensure a seamless and secure transition for everyone involved.

Prepare your dog: Start prepping your dog well in advance of the birth of your child. This can entail teaching them the fundamentals of obedience, rewarding politeness, and exposing them to sounds and odours associated with babies. You can help your dog get used to the new sensory experiences and lessen any early impact on the shifting dynamic by playing recordings of a baby screaming or using baby lotions and powders throughout the house.

Establish a tranquil and soothing environment: When it’s time for the big introduction, pick a place where your dog feels at ease. Make sure your dog is relaxed and has gotten a lot of exercise before the momentous occasion. This will lessen any excessively tense or worried attitude that can encourage abrupt, erratic, and highly undesirable behaviour.

Gradual exposure: Allow your dog and infant to get to know one another by watching from a safe distance at first. Throughout the first few encounters, keep your dog on a leash to maintain control. Treats and praise should be given to your dog for his calm, considerate demeanour around the infant.

Closely monitor all encounters: It’s important to keep a careful eye on all interactions between your dog and your infant. Even the most well-behaved dog might have unpredictable reactions if they are overexcited or startled by sudden movements or loud noises. To make sure that everyone stays secure and comfortable, keep a close check on both your infant and your dog at all times.

Maintain your dog’s schedule: It’s simple for your dog’s regular routine to be disturbed when a new infant is living in the house. A regular schedule for walks, playing, and meals, however, can make your dog feel safe and less likely to experience jealously or anxiety. During this transitional period, make sure your dog gets enough love and care to prevent any unwelcome jealous outbursts.

Encourage positive associations: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime anytime they interact in a gentle and calm manner to help them form positive associations with the new baby. This will serve to further support the notion that being around the infant is enjoyable.

A crucial first step in creating a peaceful and secure home environment for all family members is introducing your newborn to your dog. You may ensure a seamless introduction by prepping your dog beforehand, establishing a quiet environment, and monitoring interactions. As usual, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is available to offer direction, assistance, and first-rate care for your precious friends at every stage of their lives.

It is essential for the general health and wellbeing of your four-legged best friend to make sure they are eating the right amount of food. With more than 35 years of experience, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital has established itself as an excellent choice for responsible pet owners looking for advice on how to take good care of their four-legged companions. Continue reading to learn some quick and simple suggestions on how to ensure you are feeding your dog the optimum quantity of food to maintain a healthy weight and encourage optimal health. Determining the proper amount of food for your pet is crucial for general health and well-being.

Recognise the special requirements of your dog. Your dog will require a different amount of food depending on their age, weight, breed, activity level, and general health. In order to maintain their quick growth, puppies, for example, will need more frequent meals and a larger calorie intake, but elderly dogs may require fewer calories to prevent weight gain. To discover your dog’s precise nutritional requirements, start by speaking with your veterinarian or a pet nutrition specialist.

Pick high-quality dog food because your dog’s health can be greatly impacted by the food they eat. Choose a high-quality, nutritionally sound dog food that complies with your neighbourhood veterinarian’s guidelines. By doing this, you can be confident that your dog is getting the nutrients needed to support general health and maintain a healthy weight.

Using a measuring cup or scale, precisely measure out the recommended serving size for your dog in accordance with the advice given by your veterinarian or the dog food producer. To avoid overfeeding or underfeeding your pet, avoid guessing portions.

Watch your dog’s weight and physical condition to make sure they are maintaining a healthy weight. Weigh your dog frequently and evaluate their physical condition. When viewed from above, a healthy dog should have a distinct waist, and you should be able to feel their ribs without exerting too much pressure. Consult your veterinarian for advice and modify your dog’s portion amount as needed if their weight or overall health changes.

Use of a feeding chart:

Many dog food manufacturers include feeding charts on their packaging with suggested serving amounts based on your dog’s weight and activity level. Although these charts might be a good place to start, it’s important to keep in mind that every dog is different, so you might need to modify the recommended portion amounts to suit your dog’s individual requirements.

Consider activity levels and life stages when making adjustments:

Dogs who are more active or going through seasons of development or reproduction may need more calories to be at their desired weight. Make sure to alter portion amounts appropriately, and if you’re unclear about what changes to make, speak with your veterinarian.

It’s important to give your dog the proper amount of food as part of responsible pet care. You can make sure your canine companion maintains a healthy weight and experiences optimal health by being aware of their particular needs, selecting high-quality dog food, and correctly measuring portions. As always, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is here to help and advice loving pet owners by delivering expert guidance backed by years of experience.

Although we love and adore our canine friends, they occasionally pick up negative habits that need to be corrected. Liverpool Veterinary Hospital has over 35 years of expertise and is here to offer direction and assistance to local pet owners looking for top-notch care for their cherished animals. The knowledgeable staff at LVH will walk you through practical methods for discouraging negative behaviours in your dog and encouraging positive behaviour as a permanent alternative.

Determining the underlying reason:

The first step in dealing with a bad habit in your furry friend is to understand the underlying cause of it. Boredom, anxiety, the need for attention, or a lack of expert-led training are a few typical causes. Analyse your dog’s conduct to try to understand what motivates them. To determine the cause, it may occasionally be required to speak with a qualified dog trainer or behaviour specialist.

Be patient and consistent:

It’s critical to be constant in your approach while attempting to alter your dog’s behaviour. This entails employing the same methods, instructions, and penalties each time the undesirable activity happens. You must be patient and persistent in your attempts since breaking a habit takes time.

Use positive reinforcement:

Using positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to break harmful habits. This entails rewarding your dog when they exhibit the desired behaviour as opposed to punishing them when they exhibit the undesirable one. Treats, compliments, or a favourite toy can all be used as rewards. Your dog will be more likely to pick the desired activity over the undesirable habit if you concentrate on rewarding behaviour that is positive.

Redirect and replace:

If your dog exhibits an undesirable behaviour, consider replacing it with something more constructive. For instance, if your dog is chewing on your furniture, get them a tough chew toy. Your dog will learn that there are more appropriate ways to use their energy and quell their natural tendencies if you divert their focus on a regular basis.

Dogs thrive on regularity and standards with clear expectations, so establish clear boundaries and guidelines. Make sure your dog is aware of the restrictions and limitations in your house. Make sure everyone in the household understands the expectations and consistently enforce these boundaries.

When necessary, seek expert assistance. If your dog has a poor habit that is especially ingrained or can be harmful, the assistance of a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist can be of great value. They will be able to offer specific guidance and create a personalised training program to deal with the problem.

Your dog needs to be trained to break bad habits, which takes time, persistence, and commitment. You can successfully encourage positive behaviour in your furry friend by determining the core cause, employing positive reinforcement, and setting clear boundaries. Providing excellent treatment and guidance to local pet owners, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is proud to accompany you and your pet throughout this learning process.

Making sure your dog is content and entertained when you’re not home is part of being a responsible pet owner. With more than 35 years of experience, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is regarded as a reliable resource for local pet owners seeking guidance on caring for their animals. Read on for some practical advice from experts on how to keep your dog amused and content while you are out and about.

Create a safe zone for your dog within your home where they may walk about without fear of hurting themselves or causing damage to your items. This will give them a safe, stimulating environment. A cosy and plush pet bed or box, fresh water, and a selection of toys should all be present in this space to keep the pet amused. Giving them puzzle and interactive toys will stimulate their thoughts and keep them occupied for a long time, such as Kongs packed with food and exciting treats.

Utilise technology:

Along with your furry friend, technology is your best ally. With the help of technology, it’s now simpler than ever to communicate with and watch over your pet even when you’re not home. Invest in a pet camera so you can keep an eye on your dog, communicate with them, and even give them treats (very cool!) For your dog to play while you’re away, some cameras even have built-in laser pointers or other interactive capabilities. When you have technology working for you to keep your pooch happy and healthy, there is never a dull moment.

Establish a routine:

Dogs get the most out of a routine, so make an effort to have a regular schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime. This will lessen their anxiousness while you aren’t there. If you can, space out your schedule to prevent leaving your dog alone for long stretches of time. Consider having a trustworthy neighbour or professional dog walker visit during the day, or look into dog daycare facilities.

Scent-based enrichment activities can keep dogs occupied for hours by stimulating their sense of smell. Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell. Like a dog-friendly treasure hunt, try placing goodies or their favourite toys around the house for them to find! Safe essential oils or scented toys can also be used to introduce new scents.

Before you go, encourage your dog to get some exercise since a tired dog is a happy dog. Make sure to get your dog moving before you leave for work or other daily obligations. They will be more likely to sleep while you’re gone if you take them for a lengthy walk, play fetch, or engage in vigorous play.

Use background noise to calm anxiety:

While you’re away, your dog’s nervousness can be reduced by leaving some calming background noise on, such as quiet music or the sound of television. Choose something that won’t be overly loud or stimulating because those things could have the opposite impact. A fantastic location to look for music that are appropriate for dogs is YouTube.

When your furry best friend is alone at home, it’s essential for their general wellbeing to keep them amused and content. Your dog’s anxiety can be reduced and their happiness and contentment ensured even when you aren’t there by providing a safe environment, stimulating their wits with toys and puzzles, and creating a reliable schedule. Liverpool Veterinary Hospital is always available to offer advice and assistance to responsible local pet owners so they can maintain the happiness and health of their four-legged companions.

For many years, Liverpool Veterinary Hospital has been giving cherished pets top-notch care. Desexing is one of the various procedures provided and is a crucial procedure that pet owners should carefully consider. Desexing, sometimes referred to as spaying or neutering, is the surgical removal of a pet’s reproductive organs in order to stop them from reproducing. The top five advantages of having your pet desexed at Liverpool Veterinary Hospital will be discussed in this blog.

Health Advantages

The benefits to your pet’s health from desexing are numerous. Spaying female pets fully eliminates the risk of uterine infections and ovarian cancer in addition to considerably reducing the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering guys dramatically reduces the incidence of prostate issues and eliminates the chance of testicular cancer in males. Your pet will have a healthier and possibly longer life if you desex them.

Behaviour Modifications

Following desexing, many pet owners observe an improvement in their animals’ behaviour. Males who have been neutered are less prone to engage in aggressive activities including urine marking, mounting, and roving about looking for partners. Females that have been spayed won’t go through heat cycles, which can lead to increased vocalisation, agitation, and attraction to male animals. Desexed animals are generally calmer and happier, which improves the bond between them and their owners.

Population Management

Desexing your pet will help to reduce the pet population, which is one of the biggest advantages. Every year, millions of unwanted cats and dogs are put to death or abandoned to fend for themselves. You are acting responsibly by desexing your pet to avoid unwanted litters and lessen the strain on animal shelters.

Cost Reduction

Although desexing your pet has an upfront cost, it is modest in compared to the prospective costs of rearing a litter of kittens or pups. Additionally, you will save money in the long term on future medical bills by avoiding numerous health problems and complications associated with your pet’s reproductive system.

Liverpool Veterinary Hospital’s Skilled Treatment

Your pet will receive the best care possible when you choose Liverpool Veterinary Hospital to do the procedure. Our skilled and caring staff is committed to giving your cherished pet the best surgical techniques and post-operative care. The best option for your pet’s desexing surgery is Liverpool Veterinary Hospital, which has cutting-edge facilities and an emphasis on patient comfort and safety.

Desexing your pet is a crucial step in enhancing their health and welfare, as this article has explained. You are giving your pet expert care and advancing animal welfare by deciding on Liverpool Veterinary Hospital for this crucial surgery. Call our staff at (02) 9602 6015 to learn more about the advantages of desexing and to set up an appointment to see us in clinic at a time and day that suits you.

As a devoted pet owner, you want to take all reasonable measures to guarantee that your furry (or feathered) best friend has a happy and healthy life. Vaccinating your pet is among the most crucial actions you can take. For your pet’s long-term health and wellbeing, vaccinations are crucial. At Liverpool Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to offering high-quality treatment and preventive medication. The top advantages and long-term health results of vaccination your pet will be discussed in this article.

Protection Against Dangerous Illnesses

Vaccines function by encouraging the immune system to detect and combat particular infections. By immunising your pet, you can guard against potentially fatal ailments. These shots can mean the difference between life and death for your pet, and even if they do get sick, the symptoms might be less severe thanks to their optimal immune system.

Decreased Disease-transmission Rates

A “herd immunity” effect is produced when a sizable fraction of the pet population receives vaccinations, which aids in reducing disease transmission within the neighbourhood. In addition to keeping your pet safe, this improves the general wellbeing of the local pet population. Pet vaccinations are a prudent choice that benefit both your pet and the community in which it lives.

Less Expensive Long-term Healthcare

Even though there may be some initial fees involved in vaccinating your pet, these costs are insignificant in comparison to the possible costs of treating a serious illness. By preventing expensive medical procedures, prescription drugs, and prolonged veterinarian care, preventive care, such as vaccines, can ultimately save you thousands of dollars.

Higher Level of Living

Happy pets are healthy pets. The general health of your pet is maintained via vaccinations, which results in a greater standard of living. With fewer trips to the vet and less time spent in pain from preventable illnesses, a pet with all of its vaccinations is more likely to lead an active, happy life.

Conditions for Boarding and Traveling

Vaccinations could be needed if you want to take your pet on a trip or if you need to board them at a kennel or daycare centre. These procedures will go more smoothly and be less unpleasant for both you and your best friend if you make sure that your pet is up to date on their vaccinations.

At Liverpool Veterinary Clinic, our group of knowledgeable specialists are committed to giving your pet the best possible care. Your best friend can have a long, robust life with reduced risks of developing major illnesses if vaccines are given priority. Make an appointment with us right away to go over the immunisation requirements for your pet. To provide you peace of mind and a lifetime of love and companionship, get in touch with us today by calling (02) 9602 6015 or email us to develop a preventive care plan that is specifically customised to your pet’s needs.