Animal Referral Hospital - Essendon

26/01/2026

*** MELBOURNE HEATWAVE WARNING ***
>>> Forecast is for 45c degs today 27th January 2026

26/01/2026

*** MELBOURNE VENEMOUS SNAKE WARNING! ***
Don't be fooled by the 'steamy hot one day, bone dry the next followed by hail weather' we see here in Melbourne because it's that time of year when snakes are out and about even in our own backyards and here at ARH Essendon we've already seen more cases than we usually do.

So it's very important that all pet owners know what to look for and what to do in case you notice any of the following symptoms - likewise you should check with your own Doctor for the same reason if you or a child are ever bitten.

SYMPTOMS OF SNAKE BITE:
The effect of a snake bite may appear anywhere from 1 to 24 hours after the actual bite.

Here's just some of the things to be aware of thanks to the RSPCA - http://bit.ly/RSPCA_SnakeBites

+ Sudden weakness followed by collapse
+ Shaking or twitching of the muscles and difficulty blinking
+ Vomiting
+ Loss of bladder and bowel control
+ Dilated pupils
+ Paralysis
+ Blood in urine

As always DON'T DELAY...
Call us here at ARH Essendon 24/7 0n (03)9379 0700
72 Hargrave Ave Essendon Fields, VIC 3041

25/01/2026

*** ENJOY THE LONG WEEKEND! ***
Planning on having a barbie today - a public holiday?

That's great.. but what about your pets? Here in Australia, a BBQ is almost a 'tradition' - particularly on Australia Day, but the consequences for our pets - especially dogs can actually be deadly.

RULE #1: NO COOKED BONES!
No Chicken - No Lamb - No leftover meat... particularly the fatty bits - Why?...

PROBLEMS INCLUDE:
* Bones lodging in the mouth - not only painful but very dangerous
* Tummy upsets, vomiting & diarrhea
* Greatest risk - perforation of the bowel

Other issues include too much fat from lamb or fatty sausages in particular which can cause pancreatitis plus kebab sticks, onions and more!

If you see your dog or cat eating something they shouldn't - or if they're just not looking themselves after lunch, please contact your own vet ASAP or if it's an emergency or after hours, call us here at ARH Essendon Fields 24/7 on (03)9379 0700

24/01/2026

*** ANOTHER SUNDAY FUN-DAY! ***
Oldie but still a goody! :-) and rumour has it that there can be 'love' between dogs & cats... apparently! 🙂 Meantime don't forget that should you need us this or any other weekend we are here for you 24/7 at ARH Essendon Fields - Phone: (03) 9379 0700

23/01/2026

*** GOT A HEAD TILTING DOG? WHY DO THEY DO IT? ***
It may look cute but it seems there might be some underlying medical issues that need to be checked by a Vet... Worth checking out this very informative article thanks to PetMD.

If your dog keeps tilting their head, it may signal a health issue. Learn common causes and other symptoms to watch for with head tilting in dogs.

22/01/2026

*** ANOTHER BIT OF FURRY FAMILY FRIDAY FUN! ***
Can you ever imagine this happening!... 🤩
Meanwhile here at ARH Essendon Fields we hope you and your furry four-legged family(dogs or cats!) have a happy Friday and also manage to get a bit of 'you-time' together. Of course if you need us just call (03)9379 0700 or for any other location go to https://www.emergencyvet.com.au/

21/01/2026

*** WE ALL KNOW PETS ARE GOOD FOR US - BUT WHY? ***
It’s great to now know that there is a science and measurable health benefits behind the unconditional feelings of love many of us share with our pets.

So what are some of the things they do for us health & emotion wise?
Another great blog thanks to Pet Insurance Australia

Did you know that your furred or feathered friend is good for your health? Our beloved animals have helped us heal, repair and recuperate.

20/01/2026

*** SO MANY HEALTH CONDITIONS OUR PETS SHARE WITH US! ***
It's not just we humans that have various medical issues affecting our lives. So do our pets! Things like Diabetes, Cushing's Disease, Arthritis & many more... And depending if the condition is incurable or not, when is the right time to say goodbye, well only you can decide that.

Another great blog thanks to Greencross Vets...

Special needs pets can live happy lives with the right support. Greencross Vets offers advice on caring for a pet with special needs.

19/01/2026

*** SCOOTING & 'BACK-END' SMELLS! ***
What Your Pet’s “Back End” is Telling You?...

If you’ve ever caught yourself keeping an eye on your pet’s bathroom habits — congratulations, you’re officially a “poo and wee watcher.” And you’re not alone!

Believe it or not, what ends up in the litter tray, lawn, or on your daily walk can say a lot about your pet’s health.

The Secret of A**l Glands
Dogs and cats have two tiny glands at “10 o’clock and 2 o’clock” on either side of their bottom. Normally, these glands release a strong-smelling fluid when they do a poo — nature’s way of leaving a calling card.

But here’s where things can get messy:

If their stool is too soft, the glands may not empty properly.
This can lead to blockages, discomfort, and that all-too-familiar behaviour called scooting (yes, that bottom-drag across the carpet).

You might also notice your pet licking more than usual, or a fishy smell that’s hard to ignore.

The good news? Often, a simple diet change can help. One rescue pup was even labelled as needing weekly gland expressions — but once his diet was adjusted and a vet checked him over, he never needed it again!

⚠️ Important: If your pet shows scooting or discomfort, always see your vet. Expressing a**l glands can be painful if done incorrectly, so it’s not a DIY job.

Why Pets Wee in the Same Spot
Another “back end” quirk? Dogs often revisit the same indoor spot, again and again. They’re not trying to annoy you — they’re following their nose!

There's a number of products available online that can help minimise not just the smells of your pets toilet habits but also stop them doing their business in the same place every time

Bottom Line (pun intended!)
Whether it’s scooting, licking, or marking the same old corner, your pet’s back end is full of stories. Pay attention, get advice from your vet, and take advantage of clever new products — your nose (and your carpet!) will thank you.

18/01/2026

*** IS YOUR SENIOR DOG REALLY HEALTHY? **
Being 'pack animals' dogs are pretty good at 'hiding' many potential diseases & conditions. But which ones are most common to be aware of?

Some good information in this article...

Knowing the signs of age-related disease as your dog gets older will help them to live out their retirement in blissful health.

17/01/2026

*** WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUNDAY ? ***
We hope you and your furry family are getting some time together, relaxing or playing. And some of our team are too... But we just wanted to thank the entire team here at ARH-Essendon Fields, particularly those working Sundays and overnight shifts... Our 'unsung heroes'... Thankyou!!

Meantime don't forget that should you need us this or any other weekend we are here for you 24/7 at ARH Essendon Fields - Phone: (03) 9379 0700

16/01/2026

*** BEING BUSHFIRE SMOKE AWARE ***
While the current bushfires here in VIC may not be close to where you live, smoke can and often does travel a long way and can affect all our pets as well as ourselves. Some good information in this Pet Insurance article to share with friends.

Pet Insurance Australia Urges Pet Owners to Safeguard Pets Amid Bushfire Smoke . Australia's Award Winning Pet Insurance. We care about your pets' health and well-being - Pet Insurance Australia