Animal Referral Hospital - Essendon

30/11/2025

*** WHY DO DOGS SNIFF 'DOWN THERE'? ***
(And why it’s not as rude as it seems!)
If you’ve ever had a dog wander up for a friendly pat and instead… well… head straight for your crotch, you’re definitely not alone!

It can be a little embarrassing, especially when you’re dog-sitting for friends, but rest assured — it’s completely normal dog behaviour.

It’s All About Scent...
Dogs live in a world ruled by smell. Their noses are incredible — with around 300 million scent receptors (compared to our 5 million!). When your dog sniffs another dog’s bottom — or a human’s private region — they’re not being cheeky, they’re gathering information.

Humans have sweat glands called apocrine glands located in the armpits and groin. These glands produce pheromones — chemical signals that carry details about a person’s identity, emotions, and even health. To a dog, that’s like reading your biography through scent!

“G'day!... who are you?”
When a dog sniffs your crotch, they’re basically saying “Nice to meet you! Tell me a bit about yourself.” They can tell if you’re male or female, roughly how old you are, and sometimes even if you’re stressed or unwell. It’s their way of getting to know you — the dog equivalent of shaking hands or checking out someone’s social media profile!

Why Some People Get More Sniffed Than Others
Ever noticed that dogs seem to zero in on some people more than others? That’s because scents vary between individuals. People who’ve recently exercised, have strong body chemistry, or are experiencing hormonal changes (like pregnancy or menstruation) often give off stronger pheromones. To a dog, that’s fascinating!

How to Handle It Politely
If you’d rather not have your four-legged friend’s nose in your personal space, then stay calm and don’t scold. They’re not being naughty — just curious.
Redirect their attention. Offer your hand for a sniff instead, or gently guide them to sit.
Use training cues. A simple “sit” or “leave it” can help reinforce good manners.
The Bottom Line (pun intended!)
So next time a dog heads south for a sniff, remember — it’s not personal, and it’s certainly not rude in their world! It’s simply a canine’s way of saying “G’day, mate — who are you really?”

And honestly, once you understand what’s going on, it’s pretty fascinating.
Just… maybe not the best party trick to encourage! 🐶😉

29/11/2025

*** SO DOES YOUR KITTY MAKE THE LIST? ***
Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) has released its highly anticipated list of Australia’s most popular cat names for 2025, based on naming trends across thousands of insured pets nationwide. This year, classic favourites remain strong, but a few fresh surprises are making their way up the charts.

Does your kitty make the list???

Australia's Top Cat Names for 2025 Revealed . Australia's Award Winning Pet Insurance. We care about your pets' health and well-being - Pet Insurance Australia

28/11/2025

*** YAWWWN... I'M BORED MUM? ... REALLY? ***
One of the most interesting things about dog behaviour is how much they communicate through subtle body language. Yawning is actually one of several calming signals dogs use to reduce tension or express uncertainty. If your dog yawns in the middle of a training session, at the vet’s office, or when you raise your voice, it might be their way of saying, “I’m feeling a little stressed.”

Most of the time, yawning is harmless. But if your dog’s yawning becomes excessive or paired with other symptoms, it’s worth checking with your vet.

Some great info in this article - feel free to share!

When It's Excessive

27/11/2025

*** TRUE OR FALSE - YOUR VERDICT?? ***
They know don't they?... They really do! :-)
Meantime we hope you have another safe & happy Friday leading into the weekend... Of course should you need us we're here for you 24/7 at ARH Essendon Fields - just call us on (03)9379 0700.

26/11/2025

*** EVER NOTICED YOUR KITTY DO THIS??? ***
Almost every cat parent has seen their furry feline stalk a favorite toy. They crouch low to the ground and wiggle their hind end back and forth before pouncing, ending the hunt by successfully capturing their “prey.”

The butt wiggle is undoubtedly cute and entertaining, but it also serves a few practical purposes for cats.

Some interesting info to share with other kitty lovers!

When playing with your kitty, ever wonder why do cats wiggle before they pounce? Here's what to know about why cats wiggle their rear-end.

25/11/2025

*** EVER HEARD OF 'IXODES-HOLOCYCLUS'? ***
It's just a fancy name for the all too common & deadly Paralysis Tick!
And while they seem to be around all year on the eastern seaboard, they are starting to get particuarly bad now as we head into Spring/Summer.

So if you are travelling now during the school holidays or plan something over Christmas with your pets, please be very aware of the signs of tick poisoning!

It's a weird looking insect and you could be forgiven for thinking it doesn't look in the least bit scary.

24/11/2025

*** CATASTROPHIC DANGERS FOR CATS! ***
Cats are natural seekers of warmth and comfort, especially during the colder months. But sometimes their love of cosy hiding spots can put them in serious danger.

Recently, a little Burmese kitten gave its owners the fright of their lives when it decided to curl up inside a front-loading washing machine.

Unaware that the kitten had snuck in, the owner turned the machine on for a cleaning cycle.

Miraculously, the kitten survived the 55-minute wash. Though it lost a couple of toes, it made an incredible recovery and is now doing well. Not all stories end so happily, which is why cat owners need to be extra cautious about where their pets may decide to nap.

The washing machine isn’t the only hazard. Cats often seek out warm car bonnets after a drive, sometimes even sneaking up inside the engine bay. Sadly, many have been injured or killed when the car was restarted.

The safest way to prevent this is to give your cat an inviting, warm alternative indoors—whether that’s a high perch with a soft blanket or a spot near a safe heater. Cats love height and heat, so providing a cosy, elevated nook can keep them safe and satisfied.

Of course, many cats also love basking in front of fireplaces, heaters, or simply on their human companions. While their love of warmth is endearing, it’s also a reminder that our pets don’t always make the safest choices for themselves. A quick check before turning on the washing machine, dryer, or car could save a life.

Cats bring us so much comfort and companionship. In return, it’s our responsibility to protect them from the hidden dangers in and around our homes.

A little vigilance goes a long way in ensuring our feline friends enjoy long, happy, and safe lives.

23/11/2025

*** NEVER TOO OLD TO GO UNDER! ***
The Truth About Older Pets and Surgery...
When it comes to our furry family members, many pet owners worry about putting their older pets under anesthesia. There’s a common myth that once an animal reaches a certain age, surgery simply isn’t an option.

But according to specialist surgeon Dr Sarah Goldsmid - co-founder of the Animal Referral Hospital, age alone shouldn’t be the reason to avoid important procedures.

“Anaesthesia is never 100% risk-free for people or animals,” she explains, “but that doesn’t mean we should avoid it if a pet genuinely needs surgery. In fact, the disease we’re treating is usually far riskier than the anaesthetic itself.”

+ Minimising The Risks
Before any procedure, vets carefully assess older pets to keep them safe.

This includes:
+ Listening to their heart to check for murmurs or irregularities.
+ Running blood tests to see how the liver and kidneys are functioning.
+ Adjusting the anaesthetic plan if there are existing health concerns.

These checks mean your pet’s risk is significantly reduced, even if they’re well into their senior years.

Dr. Goldsmid gave the example of an 18-year-old cat needing a dental procedure—something that simply couldn’t be ignored. With proper care, that cat could live happily for years afterward. In fact, she once treated a 23-year-old cat who sailed through surgery just fine!

+ What About The Drugs?
Some people worry because they’ve heard scary stories—like Michael Jackson’s death from propofol. But Dr. Goldsmid explains that vets do use propofol regularly, and it’s actually an excellent drug when used safely under supervision. Because it’s processed quickly, it’s a good option for pets of all ages, especially those that are unwell.

+ The Cost Of Care
Of course, veterinary medicine can feel expensive, especially when you see the bill for blood tests, X-rays, or advanced imaging like MRIs. But as Dr. Goldsmid points out, vets don’t receive government subsidies—every test has a real cost. Running a 24-hour emergency hospital means employing staff around the clock and maintaining specialised equipment.

“Without diagnostics like MRIs,” she says, “we’d either have to open animals up unnecessarily, or never find out what’s wrong. In the past, pets were euthanised simply because we couldn’t get a diagnosis.”

+ Pet Insurance Makes A Difference
This is where pet insurance can be a lifesaver. Emergencies don’t wait until payday, and at 2 a.m., when your dog needs urgent surgery, knowing you’re covered can take away a huge amount of stress. Even without insurance, many vet hospitals offer payment plans so that financial worries don’t have to stand between your pet and life-saving care.

+ The Bottom Line
Your pet is never “too old” for surgery if it’s needed. With modern drugs, careful monitoring, and thorough pre-anaesthetic checks, older animals can—and often do—recover beautifully from procedures. The real danger is in letting treatable conditions go untreated out of fear.

So if your Vet recommends surgery for your senior pet, don’t panic. Ask questions, learn about the risks and safety measures, and remember: age itself is not a disease.

22/11/2025

*** OWWWWCH!... MY PAW HURTS!! ***
Just like some young kids, our dogs (& cats!) will often injure themselves accidently either by rough play or even through a bit of a fight with another animal. Kids of course will usually let you know they've been hurt, but dogs - mainly due to the 'pack mentality' will just appear to ignore it. But it's important to get any small injury checked out by your own vet as it can and often does lead to complications!

Some good info in the artcle thanks to Pet Insurance AU

Soft Tissue Trauma in Dogs . Australia's Award Winning Pet Insurance. We care about your pets' health and well-being - Pet Insurance Australia

21/11/2025

*** CATS... DO THEY REALLY LOVE US? ***
If So, Why Do They Put Their Butt in Our Faces?

If you’ve ever been sitting quietly, minding your own business, when your cat turns around and presents their rear end right up close… you’re definitely not alone! It’s one of those “why do they do that?” moments that all cat owners experience — and while it might seem rude or gross to us, in the cat world, it’s actually a sign of trust and affection.

+ Maybe It’s Their Way of Saying “G’day”?...
Cats greet each other using scent, not words. When two cats meet, they’ll sniff each other’s faces — and yes, each other’s rear ends — because scent glands around a cat’s tail carry heaps of information. It tells other cats who they are, what mood they’re in, even things like age and health.

So when your cat lifts their tail and sticks their bum in your face, they’re really saying:

“Hey, you’re part of my family — here’s my scent, want to know how I’m doing?”

It’s kind of their way of offering a friendly handshake… cat-style!

+ A Sign of Trust (and Comfort)
Cats only turn their backs on someone they trust. By exposing their most vulnerable side — their rear — they’re showing they feel completely safe around you. It’s feline body language that says, “I know, you’ve got my back.”

+ Scent Sharing and Bonding
Your cat’s scent glands are like little communication hubs. When they rub against you, nudge your face, or flop on you with their tail up, they’re mingling their scent with yours — marking you as part of their social group. So yes, you’re officially part of the pride!

+ How to Respond
You don’t need to lean in for a sniff (thank goodness!), but you can respond in ways that make your cat feel equally loved and secure:

+ Give them a gentle pat on the back or behind the ears.
Talk to them softly — they recognise your voice.
Respect their boundaries if they’ve had enough affection for the moment.

+ When It’s Too Much Information
If your cat’s rear end is a bit… erm… messy, or they seem to be licking or scooting excessively, it might be a sign of a**l gland issues, worms, or skin irritation. A quick check-up with your vet can rule out any problems and keep things fresh — for everyone involved!

+ Bottom Line (pun intended!)
When your cat pops their butt in your face, don’t take offence — take it as a compliment! It’s their quirky, smelly, and slightly embarrassing way of saying, “I love you and I trust you.”

So next time your feline friend turns tail toward you, just smile — you’ve been officially accepted into the inner circle of cat companionship. 🐱💕

20/11/2025

*** HAPPY 'SELFIE' FRIDAY! ***
If dogs could take selfies we're pretty sure this is what it might look like!!... :-)

Meantime we hope you and your furry friends have a great Friday and an even better weekend!
Of course should you need us we are here for you 24/7...
ARH Essendon Fields - 72 Hargrave Ave Essendon, Ph: (03) 9379 0700
Or for any of our other locations just go to http://arhvets.com.au/

19/11/2025

*** CAN OUR PETS REALLY SAVE LIVES? ***
Absolutely!... 🐾

Our blood donation program helps give critically ill pets a second chance. If your furry friend meets the donation criteria, we’d love to hear from you!

Please reach out to our team to learn more about how your pet can make a difference or email: essendon-blood-donors@arhvets.com 🐶🐱