Gorgeous boy George had a very big scare when he was confronted by a brown snake in his own backyard. We don’t normally think of venomous snakes as a threat to our pets when we live in the city, but it’s important to keep an eye on your pet when they’re out in the yard, and to check for any creepy crawlies that might be hiding out of sight.
If your pet is bitten, it is vital to seek veterinary advice straight away. Insect bites may need an antihistamine with additional medication and close monitoring. Venomous snake bites need antivenom immediately, along with supportive care in hospital.
After a few nights at the emergency centre, George is now recovering at home. Hopefully he doesn’t try to make any more reptile friends in the future.
Meet handsome senior Cookie
When Cookie’s owner noticed some unusual changes, they rushed straight in to have him checked over with us, and then seen by the neurology department at the Animal Referral Hospital. After many tests including x-rays, MRI and a spinal tap, an unusual diagnosis was made: neosporosis.
Neosporosis is caused by a protozoan parasite that can be picked up from contaminated food and water, or from eating infected tissue. It’s most common in puppies, where it can be passed on from the mother and cause partial paralysis of the limbs. In older dogs it can inflame the brain and spinal cord, and cause pneumonia and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart).
Although neosporosis is very rare, especially in older dogs, it is very treatable when it’s diagnosed quickly. With a combination of steroids, antibiotics and antiparasitics, Cookie is well on the way to a full recovery and exploring the great outdoors again.
Say hello to clinic cat Jerry
Jerry was brought to us as a stray who had a rocky start to life. He was found underneath someone’s house with many fractures, both new and already healed, and needed orthopaedic surgery.
After a femoral head ostectomy to help restore his mobility, and some rest and rehabilitation, he is now tearing around the clinic running amok. He’s often seen sneaking into the consult room to find chicken treats, or waiting at reception for someone to give him a pat.
He’s a cheeky boy, full of personality, and we couldn’t imagine the clinic without him.
