Gawler Animal Hospital

19/01/2026

Axel was recently admitted to hospital to have radiographic imaging of his hind legs with Dr Steve, helping ensure he’s fit, comfortable, and ready to do what he loves best. Axel is a successful sled dog, and absolutely adores his work.

These images allow us to assess joint health, alignment, and overall soundness, so we can support Axel’s performance while prioritising his long-term wellbeing.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/gqbhzjcoaa
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

17/01/2026

Have you ever worried about your pet on surgery day, wondering if they’ll be sitting in a cage all day without comfort or attention?

We have dedicated patient care nurses whose sole focus is making sure your pet feels comfortable, loved, and supported in the moments leading up to and following their procedure.

We hope this video of gorgeous Toffee is a testament to that 💛

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/zfeegbxprr
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

15/01/2026

When it comes to our pets, regular dental checks with your veterinarian are essential. Even with daily brushing, plaque and tartar can build up. There are other considerations to consider when it comes to your pet's dental health.

Firstly, it's important to remember that your pet can't express when they have a tooth ache. Some animals may show signs of pain, while others can spend years with severe dental disease and display no symptoms.

Dental disease not only affects the tooth but the surrounding tissue and bone. Once dental disease has progressed, the damage is done and cannot be reversed. With regular dental checks, prophylactic cleaning and home care, we can greatly improve dental health and minimise the need for advanced treatment and tooth extraction.

Even if your pet's teeth look 'clean' it is best to have an experience veterinarian assess your pet's dental health. When our vets perform a dental check, they are not only assessing plaque and tartar build up. Our vets are looking for missing or unerupted teeth (which can cause abscesses below the gum line), wear on teeth where pulp may be exposed (generally from playing with balls or chew toys), tooth fractures and other abnormalities like gum inflammation and oral masses.

We strongly recommend that your pets dental health is assessed 6-12 monthly, and this can occur during your routine health checks.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/mndiextdxz
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

13/01/2026

This is Bonnie after her grass seed search with Dr Michelle 🌾🐾

Grass seeds might look harmless, but they can cause serious problems for our pets if they become lodged in the skin, ears, nose, eyes or paws. Unlike splinters, grass seeds can migrate through the body, leading to infection, abscesses and even internal damage if not treated promptly.

Signs your pet may have a grass seed include:
- Sudden, persistent licking or chewing at one spot
- Limping or swelling of a paw
- Head shaking, painful ears or discharge
- Sneezing, nasal discharge or pawing at the nose
- Red, swollen eyes or squinting
- A lump, swelling, or wound that won’t heal

Left untreated, grass seeds can travel deeper into tissues, causing:
- Painful abscesses and infections
- Tissue damage
- In rare cases, life-threatening complications

Bonnie was a very brave girl, and early investigation helped prevent further issues 💛
If you notice any of these signs, especially during grass seed season. Please contact us as soon as possible. Early action can make all the difference.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/fxhuhhjqws
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

11/01/2026

A big thank you to physiotherapist Cooper Sutton, for providing our team with valuable training on manual handling and injury prevention 💪🐾

Veterinary work is physically demanding, and learning the correct techniques for lifting, restraining and positioning patients is essential to keep our team safe and well. This training helps to:
- Reduce the risk of workplace injuries
- Protect long-term musculoskeletal health
- Build confidence when handling patients of all sizes
- Ensure safer, calmer experiences for both staff and pets

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/wdwaahqyrb
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

09/01/2026

Boogie enjoying his consult with Dr Michelle. Clearly loving the fine dining provided.

He was THE sweetest boy, soaking up all the attention (and treats!) like a true gentleman. Moments like these are a reminder that a little kindness, patience and positive experiences go a long way in making vet visits happy and stress-free. 🐾

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/svrdlcxble
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

07/01/2026

The beautiful creatures you get to meet in our hospital garden. As Dr Michelle was finishing her shift she met this beautiful soul.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/ziuseapixb
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

05/01/2026

Did you know that some male dogs have testicles that don’t fully descend? This condition is called cryptorchidism, and it’s more common than many owners realise.

What is cryptorchidism?
Male puppies normally have two testicles that descend into the sc***um before or shortly after birth. A cryptorchid dog has one or both testicles that remain undescended, sitting either in the abdomen or the inguinal (groin) canal.

Why is this a problem?
Undescended testicles do not function normally and can lead to serious health concerns, including:
- A much higher risk of testicular cancer (up to 10–13 times higher than normal testicles)
- Testicular torsion — a painful emergency where the spermatic cord twists
- Hormonal issues such as prostate enlargement or behaviour changes
- Genetic inheritance, meaning cryptorchid dogs should not be bred.

What does surgery involve?
Desexing a cryptorchid dog is still very safe, but the procedure can be a little different from a standard castration.

We commonly perform an ultrasound prior to surgery to determine the location of the testicle. Depending on where the retained testicle is located, the vet may need to make a small abdominal incision (if the testicle is inside the abdomen), or an inguinal incision (if it’s trapped in the groin)

The descended testicle is removed normally, and the undescended one is removed through the additional incision. Dogs usually go home the same day and recover very well.

When should surgery be done?
Discuss with your vet regarding the correct time frame for recommended surgical removal. Most doctors recommend between 6-12 months of age to prevent further complications.

The good news?
Once the undescended testicle is removed, your dog can live a long, healthy, normal life. Basil recently required this surgery and recovered beautifully.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/iwdofkkgej
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

02/01/2026

Darla, a long-haired Persian, first became unwell after developing small bouts of foamy vomit and completely refusing food and water. She was taken to Gawler Animal Hospital, where a full examination revealed a high temperature and weight loss. Blood tests, faecal and urine analysis, ultrasounds and x-rays were all performed, but none provided clear answers. After five days of not eating, an oesophagostomy (O) tube was placed so she could be syringe fed. Thankfully, she improved and began eating on her own and the tube was removed.

Four weeks later, Darla relapsed. Her mum assumed she may have had an upset stomach from eating hay from her rabbit housemates, so she underwent repeat x-rays and an ultrasound, but again, nothing conclusive appeared. She was referred to specialist care, where she spent three days undergoing more advanced diagnostics. Another O-tube was required due to her refusal to eat. Specialists performed intestinal biopsies, endoscopy (from both throat and re**um), and high resolution imaging.

Darla was ultimately diagnosed with Lymphocytic Plasmacytic Enterocolitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. She began treatment with daily prednisolone, which she remained on for a full year, with bloodwork every six months to monitor her progress as well as switching to a hypoallergenic diet. Most recently, she transitioned to a newer medication, budesonide.

Today, Darla is thriving at home, she has a healthy appetite, and her sweet, cuddly playful nature has fully returned.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/wzvsvowjpf
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

31/12/2025

Happy New Year from all of us at Gawler Animal Hospital! We are so grateful for your continued support throughout 2025 and look forward to continuing to provide gold standard veterinary care for your beloved pets in 2026.

Just a reminder, we are closed today but will recommence all services as normal tomorrow.

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/znjcgwdjvj
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

31/12/2025

As fireworks light up the sky this New Year, the noise can be overwhelming and frightening for dogs. Loud bangs, flashing lights, and busy celebrations can trigger anxiety or panic.

Help keep your pets calm and safe by:
• Bringing them indoors before fireworks start
• Creating a quiet, secure space with familiar bedding
• Closing windows and curtains to reduce noise and flashes
• Playing calming music or TV for background noise
• Ensuring ID tags and microchips are up to date
• Keeping party foods, alcohol, and decorations well out of reach

Let’s celebrate responsibly and make sure our furry family members feel safe too 💛🐶

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/bogoupeusy
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au

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29/12/2025

Amidst all the Christmas festivities, we’re thrilled to share some wonderful news. Caila, one of our cherished Veterinary Technicians and team leaders, recently married her soulmate! Congratulations to Caila on this beautiful new chapter!

Visit our website: https://f.mtr.cool/gmedsnewvq
Call us: 8522 3500
Email us: reception@gawlervets.com.au