Great Western Animal Hospital

Heartworm in Dogs: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment (Sydney Vet Guide)

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:57:00 +0000

Heartworm is a dangerous parasite spread by mosquitoes and just one bite can infect your dog or cat. But don’t stress! It’s easily preventable with the right protection. In this blog, we break down how heartworm works, the symptoms to watch fo

Heatstroke Happens Faster Than You Think: A 30-Minute Timeline for Dogs and Cats

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

Heatstroke in dogs and cats can develop in under 30 minutes. Learn the signs of heatstroke, symptoms by stage, and when to seek emergency veterinary care.

What Your Pet’s Body Shape Is Telling You About Their Health

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

Your pet’s body shape can reveal important clues about their health that the scales alone cannot. Learn how to recognise signs of underweight, ideal condition and excess weight, and discover how a simple body condition check can help keep your pet h

How Much Should My Pet Actually Be Eating? A Vet-Approved Guide for Dogs and Cats

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

How much should your pet be eating? We break down feeding guides, portion sizes, and how to avoid overfeeding dogs and cats.

Protecting Your Pet Rabbit from Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) is being released into the environment across NSW, putting pet rabbits at serious risk. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your rabbit. Learn what RHDV is, why indoor rabbits are still at risk, and ho

Why your vet might ask for a urine sample from your pet

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000

A simple urine sample can reveal early signs of kidney disease, infections, diabetes and more. Learn why vets recommend urine testing, what it tells us about your pet’s health and how to collect a sample at home for Great Western Animal Hospital.

Preparing Your Pet for the Christmas Season

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Get your pet ready for the festive season with our simple Christmas safety guide. From toxic foods to fireworks, visitors and travel plans, here’s how to keep your pet calm, healthy and happy during the holidays.

Giving Back This December: Supporting Pets in the Park

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 21:00:00 +0000

This December, your visit helps a pet in need. For every consultation at Great Western Animal Hospital, we’re donating $5 to Pets in the Park to support the pets of people experiencing homelessness. A small act from you can make a big difference for

What is Canine Parvovirus?

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Parvovirus is one of the most dangerous diseases affecting dogs, especially puppies. In this post, we break down what every pet owner needs to know from how parvo spreads and the symptoms to look for, to the life-saving importance of vaccination and early

Why Cytology Matters in Diagnosing Ear Infections

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 01:00:00 +0000

Ear infections are one of the most common conditions we see in dogs — but did you know that not all infections are the same? Cytology is a quick, painless test that helps us identify whether an infection is caused by bacteria, yeast, or both, allowi

Understanding Ear Infections in Pets: Signs, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Does your dog keep shaking their head or scratching their ears? Ear infections are common in pets and can be painful if left untreated. Discover the key signs to look for, how vets diagnose them using an otoscope and cytology, and the best ways to treat a

How Ultrasound Helps Us Care for Your Pets

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered how vets use ultrasound? It’s quick, non-invasive, and often gives us the answers we need to help your pet feel better sooner. Read how it works and meet three pets whose care was transformed by this technology.

My Dog Is Limping – Could It Be a Cruciate Ligament Injury?

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Limping in dogs is often more than just a minor injury. Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) damage is a common cause, especially in medium to large breeds. Discover how to spot the signs early, understand your treatment options, and give your dog the best cha

Heartworm - What every pet parent should know

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

New Lepto2 Vaccine Now Available at Great Western Animal Hospital

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Leptospirosis is on the rise across Greater Sydney. The new Lepto2 vaccine protects against more strains than ever before. Discover who needs it, how it works, and why early protection matters.

Is your pet hiding a painful secret?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Is your pet hiding a painful secret? Dental disease affects up to 80% of dogs and cats by age three, often without any obvious signs. Learn how to spot the symptoms, prevent problems, and keep your pet smiling with expert advice from the team at Great Wes

Why We Recommend Pre-Anaesthetic Blood Testing for Your Pet

Wed, 14 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Why do we recommend pre-anaesthetic blood tests for pets?
Because your pet's safety matters. Learn how this quick and simple test helps us detect hidden health concerns, tailor anaesthesia, and give your pet the best possible care before surgery.

Heated Bed Safety for Pets: What Every Aussie Pet Parent Should Know

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Heated pet beds can be a cosy comfort for your furry friend during the cooler months—especially for seniors or pets with arthritis. But not all warm spots are created equal! Learn which heated beds are safe to use, what to avoid (like electric blank

What age should I desex my pet? New Desexing Guidelines

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

New Desexing Guidelines for DogsRecent updates from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) suggest moving away from a blanket recommendation to desex all dogs before sexual maturity. Instead, the recommendation is to tailor the timing of desexing to each dog’s individual circumstances. If you are considering desexing your dog, we encourage you to discuss the best timing with your veterinarian at your dog’s Juvenile Health Check. General Recommendations by Breed S...

Ear Infections: What you need to know

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Does your dog love splashing in puddles, rolling in the grass, or shaking their fluffy ears in pure joy? While these are some of the best parts of having a pup, they can also lead to a common and frustrating issue: ear infections.Ear infections are especially prevalent in dogs with floppy ears, hairy ear canals, or those prone to allergies. Breeds like Poodles, their crosses, and dogs with sensitive skin often deal with this problem. But don’t worry—we’re here to break down the causes, ...

Ticks And Your Pets – What You Need To Know

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

There is currently a shortage of tick serum globally so it has never been more important to ensure your pet is kept up to date with their tick prevention. What are ticks?
Ticks are parasitic arachnids that feed on bloodmeal from their host. They are often found on the face, legs, armpits and belly of affected dogs and cats. They range from 3-5mm in size but can grow much larger when fully engorged from feeding. The most significant species of tick for dogs and cats are the b...

Wash Your Pet’s Dishes After Every Single Use, Seriously

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

How often do you wash your pet’s dishes? Be honest! Unless your answer is “after every single use”, you aren’t washing them enough. With that being said, we aren’t here to be the “wash your pet’s dish” police but we do want to keep them happy and healthy! Would you eat off of the same dish for multiple days at a time? Your pet doesn’t want to either! After your pet has eaten dinner, a quick wash with soap and hot water takes under a minut...

Free Trial Of Trupanion Pet Insurance

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Great Western Animal Hospital and Trupanion are offering our clients a 30 day Pet Health Insurance trial. The information below explains everything you need to know about Trupanion’s Certificate Program. HOW TO GET STARTED WITH YOUR FREE TRIAL: Call in and set up an appointment to meet with us at Great Western Animal Hospital for a quick pet exam to determine the health status of your pet. Simply take home a short form (Located at the bottom of this window) where you can go online or...

Understanding Noise Phobia in Pets: Helping Your Furry Friend Through the Storm

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Help your pet cope with noise phobia: understand triggers, create a safe space, consider medication and behaviour techniques. Reach out to us for personalised support and a happier pet.

Keep Your Pet Safe: Essential Tips for Lost Pet Prevention

Sun, 26 May 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Caring For Your Pets During Winter

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Prepare your furry friends for the chilly months ahead with our essential guide to winter pet care, ensuring they stay warm and healthy all season long.

Unravelling the Mystery: Understanding Canine Compulsive Disorder

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Dive into the fascinating world of Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD), where dogs mirror human tendencies in obsessive behaviours. From puzzling symptoms to insightful causes and effective treatments, discover how this disorder impacts our furry friends'

Is your dog a bit funky? A guide to freshening up their scent!

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Discover how to keep your furry friend smelling fresh and clean with our comprehensive guide to addressing common causes of odours in dogs' ears, teeth, skin, and anal glands. From combating wax buildup in ears to tackling bad breath with proper dental

Nurturing the Golden Years: Walking Your Older Dog with Care

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Embrace the golden years with your furry friend by adapting their walks! In their senior phase, a tailored approach is key. Consult our vet team to address their unique needs, considering health, age, and comfort.

Understanding Your Pet's Discomfort: Recognising Signs of Pain

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Discover the subtle signs that indicate your pet might be in pain. Learn about behavioural changes, altered eating habits, vocalization, grooming shifts, posture and movement alterations, changes in sleeping patterns, and facial expression clues.

Nurturing Your Cat's Hydration Habits

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:00:00 +0000

In this blog, discover essential insights into your cat's hydration needs. Uncover signs of dehydration, learn how much water your cat should drink, and explore five practical tactics to encourage regular hydration. Ensure your feline friend stays heal

Your Guide to Successful First-Time Overnight Boarding for Your Furry Friend

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000

First-time pet boarding? Check out our top tips for a stress-free experience!

Unearthing the Secrets Behind Why Dogs Dig

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Unearth the reasons behind your dog's digging habits and discover effective training tips tailored to their breed characteristics.

Springtime Pet Allergies: A Guide to Identifying, Treating, and Managing Allergies in Your Pets

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 14:00:00 +0000

In our comprehensive blog, we delve into the world of springtime pet allergies, helping you recognise the signs, explore treatment options, and discover effective ways to manage allergies in your beloved pets.

Playing it Cool in the Pool

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 14:00:00 +0000

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping our pets happy and protected around water. In this blog, we'll share valuable pool safety tips tailored specifically for our beloved companions.

Secrets to Picking the Right Dog Breed for Your Family and Lifestyle

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000

With more dogs than ever being diagnosed with symptoms of anxiety, it begs the question: is anxiety becoming more common in pets, or are we just getting better at recognising it?

The Do’s and Don’ts of Flea and Tick Prevention

Tue, 30 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

With more dogs than ever being diagnosed with symptoms of anxiety, it begs the question: is anxiety becoming more common in pets, or are we just getting better at recognising it?

Understanding, Preventing and Treating Anxiety in Dogs

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

With more dogs than ever being diagnosed with symptoms of anxiety, it begs the question: is anxiety becoming more common in pets, or are we just getting better at recognising it?

The Paw-fect Pet

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

With more dogs than ever being diagnosed with symptoms of anxiety, it begs the question: is anxiety becoming more common in pets, or are we just getting better at recognising it?

Heartworm Signs, Treatment and Prevention

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 14:00:00 +0000

This National Heartworm Awareness Month, the Vet Marketing Services Vet team would like to keep pet owners informed about the risk of heartworm for dogs and cats, and how to best protect pets from this dangerous disease.

How to deal with the loss of a pet

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Whether your pet has passed away after being unwell or injured or you’ve had to make the difficult decision to humanely put them to sleep, the loss of your animal companion can be devastating.

Pet Skin Cancers

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 14:00:00 +0000

“Slip, slop, slap” isn’t just a good idea for human family members - did you know that cats and dogs can suffer from sun-related skin cancers too? Is my pet at risk of sun-related skin cancer? Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC’s) are skin cancers that can occur in both dogs and cats and are associated with high UV light exposure causing chronic (long-term) skin damage. SCC’s most commonly develop in pink-skinned pets, particularly in sparsely-furred areas su...

Hot Weather Hazards

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:00:00 +0000

With the summer heat upon us, it’s important that we help our pets stay cool and hydrated too! Read on to learn about some common hot weather hazards for dogs, and how to keep your pet safe. The floor is lava: Hot pavement Under the hot summer sun, pavement can rapidly reach scorching temperatures and will retain heat for several hours. Walking your dog on this hot surface can cause discomfort and potentially serious burns to their paw pads. How can I safely walk my dog in the summer...

National Cat Lovers Month

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Whilst our feline friends might insist that every month is National Cat Lovers month, this month it’s official! In celebration of all our wonderful feline patients, the team has put together a list of quality environmental enrichment suggestions for cats. What is environmental enrichment? Environmental enrichment involves offering your cat various feline-friendly items, foods, or situations to interact with in order to encourage exploration and the expression of natural feline be...

Hot Spots on Dogs

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000

HOT SPOTS ON DOGS Hot spots are one of the most common skin conditions in dogs. More common in hotter months, hot spots can be a problem for Australian dogs due to the heat and humidity here. What are hot spots on dogs? Acute moist dermatitis, or hot spots, are localised areas of skin inflammation and bacterial infection. They may start as small red spots (resembling insect bites), but can quickly worsen and develop into a painful lesion. What causes hot spots on dogs? Hot spots ca...

How Much Time Should Your Cat Spend Grooming?

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Why do cats groom so often? Cats spend large portions of their day cleaning because they like to be clean. Most household cats will spend between 30-50% of their average day grooming by licking, rubbing, scratching and more. The reason your cat grooms so often is to stay clean, but also to: regulate their body temperature (keep cool or warm) improve their coat with oils stimulate blood circulation calm their anxious nerves keep their mind active and avoid boredom remove or mas...

Dental Disease in Dogs

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Dental problems in dogs are common worldwide. In fact, 80% of dogs over the age of three have experienced at least early stages of dental disease.

Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Sat, 13 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

How does hypothyroidism affect dogs? Your dog’s thyroid gland The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones. It is located in a dog’s neck and forms part of the endocrine system, which regulates the body’s processes via chemical messengers called hormones. The primary hormones produced by the thyroid are called T4 (AKA thyroxine) and T3 (AKA triiodothyronine). These hormones are responsible for the regulation of metabolism, growth, heart fu...

About Microchips in Dogs & Cats: Plus, How to Check & Update Details

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Pet microchipping is compulsory on the Gold Coast. But, more than that, it’s helpful for pet owners if their pets get lost.

Intestinal Worm Symptoms & Treatment in Dogs

Sat, 28 May 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Because of prevention, intestinal worms aren’t as common as they used to be. But, unfortunately, they’re still there pet owners should remain vigilant. The most common types of intestinal worms There are four prevalent types of worms found in dogs in our city that veterinarians are prepared for. Whipworms Whipworms are less common compared to other intestinal parasites listed in this guide. But, pet owners should remain alert for the symptoms and warning signs ...

7 Common Foods to Hide Dog Medication In & What Not to Do

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to medicating our pets. And that includes encouraging them to take their pills or tablets too. Some pets enjoy the flavours that pet medications have, and others can smell the packet open and begin evasive maneuvers long before you realise. How to hide pet medications in food Read the label Every medication is made of different ingredients. And they’re built to release in different ways too. Some medications can have th...

6 Reasons Your Cat Isn’t Sleeping at Night and How to Help

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Active cats are a lot of fun until they aren’t. Many of us want the most exciting part of the night to be our heads hitting the pillow. But for a few cat owners, nights don’t end there. As cat owners, we have to remember that we shouldn’t use any punishment or negative reinforcement for habits like these, especially if they’re new or unusual. Instead, you should help diagnose the cause of their behaviour. Reasons cats might not sleep through the night It’s ho...

13 Reasons Your Dog’s Licking Its Paws and When to Visit the Vet

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Lots of dogs lick their paws. And, there are a bunch of different reasons why your dog might be. The trouble is diagnosing the problem and finding a solution. Why dogs lick their paws: If your dog is obsessively licking their paws, you should find the cause and determine the next course of action. Their newfound interest may be caused by underlying health problems or injury. Diagnosing the issue is the first step to better health for your dog, so you should contact us for an...

Heatstroke in Dogs, 6 Symptoms and Risks

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Dogs not having sweat glands is a common myth. They've actually got some in their footpads to help with heat dissipation. But despite their uncommonly known sweat glands, all dogs can be affected by heatstroke, and you should know the signs. Heatstroke can be fatal for dogs, and if you’re concerned that your pet is affected, you need to take them to the vet as soon as possible. What is heatstroke in dogs? Dogs' sweat glands in their paws aren't enough to cool down t...

5 Reasons Your Cat May Be Regurgitating and Tips to Help

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Unfortunately, most cat owners experience it. And it's not exactly uncommon.For accurate diagnosis and solutions, contact us. The difference between regurgitation and vomiting for catsCats regurgitating and vomiting are two different things. Regurgitating occurs when a cat hasn't managed to get their food down fully and start digesting. It's an unconscious action in which the undigested food can be expelled from the oesophagus. In other words, the food didn't quite make it down, an...

Is Your Dog Overweight?

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Obesity in dogs is a more common problem than Australian pet owners realise, so much so that one in three Australian dogs are overweight.

Can Dogs Get Colds?

Sat, 17 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Whether your dog has a short coat or a long coat, they feel the effects of winter just like us.

5 Common Mistakes Made By Cat Owners

Sat, 15 May 2021 14:00:00 +0000

All pet owners want for their furry family members is for them to lead a happy and healthy life in the home. Cats are notorious for their ability to hide when they're ill; symptoms of illness can be easily overlooked, making it difficult for their owners to know something is going on or that their cat isn't feeling well. However, despite this tendency, there are some common mistakes you can avoid as a way to ensure your cat is healthy! 1) Not going to the vet regularly ...

What is Pancreatitis in Dogs?

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Pancreatitis is a condition referring to the severe inflammation of the pancreas. It's a common yet serious and potentially fatal health issue, affecting dogs of all types. The pancreas is involved in digesting food and releasing insulin in the body; when left untreated, pancreatitis can be life-threatening and potentially fatal. While there are certain risk factors and causes, pancreatitis can often appear out of the blue. Timeliness is of the essence if your dog is experiencing pancrea...

An Introduction to Feeding Your Kitten

Sat, 27 Mar 2021 14:00:00 +0000

Adding a new four-legged addition to the family is a huge step that comes with a lot of responsibility. One of those is feeding them a diet that provides adequate care and nutrition for their growing bodies. Kittens generally join their human families between the ages of 6-to-8 weeks and during this period, they're weaned from their mothers and are able to begin enjoying more solid foods. What foods should you feed kittens? The diet of a kitten differs from that of an adult cat...

All Your Questions About Desexing Your Pet Answered

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 14:00:00 +0000

When you've got a new, young pet in the family, the thought of putting them through a surgical procedure can be extremely daunting and scary. For the majority of pet owners, desexing is a necessary procedure but to ease your reservations, knowing the facts can help make your decision easier. What happens when you desex your pet? Desexing is essentially sterilisation, stopping your pet's ability to breed. In female dogs, sterilisation helps to avoid unwanted pregnancies, ble...

Keeping Your Cat Safe From the Flu

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Did you know that cats are susceptible to flu-like illnesses year-round? While humans prepare for flu season, it's essential to remember our feline friends who face these risks continuously. Understanding the signs and symptoms of cat flu and how to minimize infection is crucial for their well-being. Symptoms to Watch For: The most common symptoms of cat flu include sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, and lethargy. Severity and Vulnerability: Most cases of cat flu are mild, but ki...