Reedy Creek Vet | Veterinary Surgery Varsity Lakes

Understanding Common Pet Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Does your pet constantly scratch, sneeze, or suffer from red, irritated skin? Just like humans, pets can develop allergies that make their daily lives uncomfortable. But what exactly triggers these reactions, and how can you help? In this FAQ, we’ll

The Hidden Dangers in Your Home: Common Household Hazards for Pets

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

As pet owners, we all want our homes to be a safe haven for our furry friends. But did you know that even though our homes feel cozy and safe to us, they can sometimes hide some risks for our pets?

Caring for Pets Experiencing Seizures

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through understanding seizures in pets, what immediate steps to take during an episode, and how to provide ongoing care. By the end, you’ll feel more confident and equipped to support your furry friend thr

A Year of Pawsitive Change: Your Guide to Pet Health and Happiness in 2025

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000

As the calendar turns and we step into a brand-new year, there’s no better time to make resolutions—not just for ourselves, but for our furry companions too. If you’re a pet owner, 2025 can be the year you elevate your pet’s hea

Pet Travel Made Easy: Essential Holiday Tips for a Safe Journey

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 02:20:00 +0000

Embarking on a holiday adventure with your pet? Our guide is packed with essential tips to ensure their safety and comfort on the road. Learn about car safety measures, ways to reduce travel anxiety, and how to choose pet-friendly accommodations. With

Pet Diabetes : What You Need To Know

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

This November, in honour of Diabetes Awareness Month, we're shining a light on pet diabetes—a condition that’s becoming increasingly common yet manageable with the right care. Our experienced veterinary team is dedicated to helping pet owne

7 Reasons Why Puppy Preschool is Essential for Your Pup’s Development

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Why Puppy Preschool is a Must for Your Pup’s Growth!

Thinking about Puppy Preschool? It’s essential for shaping your pup into a well-behaved, confident adult dog!

Desexing: What You Need to Know

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 01:16:00 +0000

Discover the ideal timing for desexing your pet and how it varies by breed and size. Learn essential post-surgery care tips to ensure a smooth recovery. For personalised advice, consult your veterinarian.

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

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 01:25:00 +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

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 02:25:00 +0000

Is your heart racing at the thought of a lost pet? Don't let it happen! This blog post provides pawsome tips for preventing your furry friend from going missing. Discover the power of microchipping, ID tags, secure fencing, and other proactive measures

Keeping Your Pets Happy and Healthy During Winter: A Complete Care Guide

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 04:15:00 +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.

Canine Compulsive Disorder: Understanding, Diagnosing, and Treating Repetitive Behaviours in Dogs

Thu, 16 May 2024 02:36:00 +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 Keep Your Dog Smelling Fresh and Clean

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 23:02:00 +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: Caring for Your Senior Dog

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 01:56:00 +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

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 23:54:00 +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.

Fostering Better Hydration Habits for Your Cat

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 01:18:00 +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

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 02:40:00 +0000

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

Unearthing the Secrets Behind Why Dogs Dig

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 23:00:00 +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

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 23:00:00 +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

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 23:00:00 +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. From creating a pet-friendly pool environment to teaching t

How to Choose the Perfect Dog Breed for Your Family's Lifestyle

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 20:00:00 +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

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 01:00:00 +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

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 02:27:00 +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 and Managing Anxiety in Dogs

Thu, 18 May 2023 02:00:00 +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 Heartworm: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0000

This National Heartworm Awareness Month, the Reedy Creek 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

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +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

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 20:00:00 +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 such as around the eyes, ear...

Hot Weather Hazards

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 20:00:00 +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 pavementUnder 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?If you’...

National Cat Lovers Month

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 04:00:00 +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 Reedy Creek Veterinary 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...

Hot Spots on Dogs

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 20:00:00 +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 can so...

How Much Time Should Your Cat Spend Grooming?

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 22:00:00 +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 oilsstimulate blood circulationcalm their anxious nerveskeep their mind active and avoid boredomremove or mask scent from preda...

Dental Disease in Dogs

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 23:00:00 +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: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000

How does hypothyroidism affect dogs?Understanding hypothyroidism in dogsThe thyroid gland, located in your dog’s neck, is an important part of the endocrine system. It produces hormones that help regulate various bodily functions, such as metabolism, growth, and tissue maintenance. The two main hormones produced by the thyroid are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play a vital role in maintaining your dog’s energy levels, weight, and even their coat condition. How does ...

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

Sat, 16 Jul 2022 03:00:00 +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

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 23:00:00 +0000

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

Common Allergies in Dogs & Cats & Symptoms at Home

Tue, 17 May 2022 23:00:00 +0000

Like us, many pets have allergies. And many things found in Australian homes can cause allergic reactions in both dogs and cats.

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

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 23:00:00 +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 foodRead the labelEvery medication is made of different ingredients. And they’re built to release in different ways too. Some medications can have their effects re...

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

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 23:00:00 +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 by talking to your vet.Reasons cats might not sleep through the nightIt’s how the...

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

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 23:00:00 +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 accurate ...

Recognising and Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs: 6 Key Symptoms and Risks

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

There’s a common misconception that dogs don’t have sweat glands. In fact, they do—primarily located in their footpads to help with some heat dissipation.However, these glands are not sufficient for cooling them down effectively. This makes dogs susceptible to heatstroke, especially in hot climates like the Gold Coast.Heatstroke is a serious and potentially fatal condition for dogs. If you believe your dog is suffering from heatstroke, you must take them to a vet immediately.What is hea...

3 Simple Ways to Pet-Proof Your Home for Christmas

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000

What’s Christmas without the decorations and festive food? And what’s Christmas without our furry friends? Unfortunately, the two don’t go so well together.

3 Ticks Gold Coasters Should Watch For

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Gold Coast has been named a hotspot for ticks. Is your pet ready for tick season?

4 Things Pet Owners Should Do Before Halloween

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Lots of us will be dressing up and eating sweets this month on the Gold Coast, sounds like a good time right? Your pets might not agree.

Is Your Dog Carrying Extra Weight?

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +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.

Practice Update

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 01:00:00 +0000

Dr Justin and Dr Mat's hours of rostered consulting will be reduced.

Can Dogs Get Colds?

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000

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

COVID-19 Update

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Reedy Creek Vet COVID-19 Update

Choosing the Dog for You

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Just like us, every dog is a unique individual with traits and characteristics. In saying that, you can get a fair idea of what you're in for by looking at different breeds and determining what's right for you and your household.

5 Common Mistakes Made By Cat Owners

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +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 Ca...

What is Pancreatitis in Dogs?

Fri, 07 May 2021 00:00:00 +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 pancreat...

An Introduction to Feeding Your Kitten

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +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 c...

Reedy Creek Vet Closure - Wednesday 24th March

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Please note, due to staff training, Reedy Creek Vet will be closed on Wednesday 24th March from 2pm onwards, re-opening on Thursday 25th March at 8am. We apologise for the inconvenience. As you can imagine, training a large team such as ours all at once can be a challenge, but we have a firm commitment to the ongoing training and progression of our team, and know our patients will benefit from this development. In the event of an emergency, please contact the Animal Emergency Centre by ca...

All Your Questions About Desexing Your Pet Answered

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +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, bleedi...

How Pets Benefit Your Mental Health During Isolation

Mon, 04 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Pets add to the lives of their owners every day of the year in countless ways. But with the current climate, the rates of loneliness through isolation and social distancing are expected to have a negative effect on the physical and mental health of the community. As pet owners, here's how having their place in your life will help you during this difficult time:Keeps you active - pets encourage play and exercise, both of which are great for your physical and mental health, as well as their...

Protecting Your Cat from the Flu

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Did you know that cats can catch the flu year-round? While we humans prepare for flu season at certain times of the year, our feline companions are at risk throughout the year. That's why it’s important to recognise the signs of cat flu and understand how to keep your furry friend safe from infection.Symptoms to Watch Out ForCommon signs of cat flu include sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, and general lethargy. These symptoms may appear mild, but it's essential to keep a close eye on yo...

Avoid Overwalking Your Dog During Isolation

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

As many of us settle into new routines, working from home or with more free time than before, it’s heartening to see so many people embracing the outdoors. Long, peaceful walks have become a welcome escape, and for pet owners, this often means their four-legged companions are joining them for the adventure.While these walks are undoubtedly wonderful for keeping dogs both happy and healthy, it’s important to remember that there can be too much of a good thing. Just like humans, dogs can be...