We generally recommend annual vaccinations for both cats and dogs however your veterinarian will tailor a vaccination program that suits your pet’s needs depending on their lifestyle and your preferences.
Worms, fleas and mites will cause discomfort for your pet. These parasites can be prevented and treated with a range of products. One of our veterinarians will help tailor a program that is suitable to your pet based on its requirements and your budget.
A microchip is a tiny electronic chip approximately the size of a rice grain which has a unique identifying number. The microchip is the link to the owner’s contact details which are held on the state-wide database.
Microchipping is a simple procedure that can usually occur during a consultation visit or whilst sedated for another surgical procedure.
As of 1 July 2018 all dogs and cats in South Australia must be microchipped before 3 months of age or 28 days after purchase. This also includes older cats and dogs.
Please refer to the Dog and Cat Board for further information http://www.dogandcatboard.com.au/
Desexing means to permanently render an animal incapable of reproducing. In female animals this involves the removal of the ovaries and the uterus. In male animals it involves the removal of the testicles. Most animals do very well after surgery, with no or minimal complications.
At BVH we always encourage desexing surgery for the many health benefits it offers your pet, however it is now law for all dogs and cats born after the 1st July 2018 to be desexed. Special exemptions exist for working and breeding animals. More information regarding this change in legislation can found on the government website http://www.dogandcatboard.com.au/
Desexing surgeries are performed Monday to Friday at the BVH. Whilst dogs and cats form the majority of our surgical case load, we also desex rabbits, ferrets and guinea pigs among others.
The ideal age for desexing can vary depending on the species and the expected size of your pet when they are full grown. Below are some guidelines that we use at BVH.
Cats
- Male and female cats at 4-6 months of age
Dogs
- Small breed – male and female dogs at six months of age
- Large (adult size of >40kg) breed – male and female dogs at 12 months of age
Rabbits
- Male and female rabbits at 6 months of age
We understand at BVH that some owners find grooming their pets stressful or that some coats are difficult for owners to manage. At BVH we provide grooming services under sedation for both cats and dogs. This can be arranged as a stand- alone service or can be organised at the same time as another procedure.
At BVH we have a wide range of specialist foods that can help manage various conditions. Prescription diets can assist in the management of: urinary issues (e.g. urinary calculi), weight management, bowel disease and kidney failure, in both cats and dogs.
We can provide samples of some brands of food and we will help you select a product that your pet enjoys.
Ageing pets can experience several afflictions that can affect their quality of life. This may include changes in vision, hearing, skin or mobility and senior pets can also experience restlessness at night. Our team of veterinarians can offer a wide range of services to ensure your pet is comfort and enjoying their later years.
Solensia is a relatively new treatment that treats osteoarthritis pain in older cats. Solensia is the first and only FDA-approved treatment to control cat osteoarthritis pain, which can help improve your cat’s quality of life. Solensia is generally commenced with two initial injections, one month apart. Your cat’s response will then be assessed by a veterinarian who will determine an ongoing treatment schedule. For more information please click here.
Beransa is a new treatment that was released in March 2023 that treats osteoarthritis pain in dogs. Beransa is a monoclonal antibody therapy that is generally commenced with two initial injections, one month apart. Your dog’s response will then be assessed by a veterinarian who will determine an ongoing treatment schedule. For more information please click here.
Cartrophen injections are a commonplace treatment for older dogs who present with arthritis. This treatment can assist with joint mobility and comfort. Cartrophen injections are generally given once a week for a one month period and every 6-12 months thereafter. For more information please click here.
