VET OPEN GOOD FRIDAY, EASTER SUNDAY & EASTER MONDAY
Animal Accident & Emergency
will be OPEN 24/7 during the Easter Holiday period.
Our Pet Emergency Centres are always open as we never close even on public holidays.
If you need a vet on Good Friday, Easter Sunday or Easter Monday
then please contact one of our 24 hour Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne:
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
******* EXTREME HEAT FORECAST ******
Melbourne’s forecast tomorrow is for extreme heat. Extreme heat causes significant stress for all animals.
To reduce the impacts of high temperatures on your pet, please ensure:
* the provision of a plentiful supply of clean cool water
* shade is essential if your pet is outside
* walk your dog early to avoid the hot mid day sun
* don’t over exercise
* never leave your pet in a hot car
* provide ice blocks and/or wet towels
If you are concerned your pet is be suffering from the heat get veterinary help immediately or one of our 24 hour Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne:
Animal Accident & Emergency:
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
There’s nothing like celebrating AUSTRALIA DAY!
OPENING HOURS FOR AUSTRALIA DAY
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 on Australia Day, Tuesday 26th January 2016.
We have two Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne which will be OPEN 24 hours should you need us:
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
24 Hour Vet Care Melbourne
Animal Accident and Emergency (AAE) is a purpose-built animal emergency centre servicing Melbourne. It provides 24-hour animal emergency services. There are two great locations – Essendon and Point Cook. The centres are located to provide direct and easy freeway access. Time is precious in any emergency.
Our Melbourne Vet Emergency Centres provide dedicated emergency care 24/7. We are not just an after hours vet clinic. Our whole focus is emergency and critical care.
If you have a Veterinarian emergency please contact one of our 24 Hour Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Celebrating New Year’s Eve is a great tradition but it is one of our busiest nights for lost/stray pets.
Is Your Pet Ready for New Years Eve:
1. Have you microchipped your pet?
2. Are they wearing a collar ID tag?…
3. Are your contact details are up-to-date with the National Pet Register?
By doing these 3 things it will give you and your pet the best chance of being reunited in the event they become lost.
***Important Numbers***
National Pet Register can be contacted 24/7 on 1300 734 738
Lost Dogs Home can be contacted (03) 9329 2755
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
This is the adorable Twiggy, a 7 month old Dachshund puppy who has received emergency veterinary care by Dr Jina Song for Chinaberry toxicity.
The Chinaberry tree is also know as White Cedar tree or “Melia Azedarach” and is highly toxic.
Twiggy presented at our Point Cook 24hr Pet Emergency Centre suffering an acute onset of vomiting.
Twiggy was most fortunate as her carers saw her eating the berries and rushed her to our centre. Her treatment was successful although she is continuing treatment due to expected complications from stomach insults from her ordeal.
The entire tree is toxic (bark, leaves and flowers) with higher toxin amounts in the berries.
Once eaten, your pet will quickly show varying signs:
– vomiting,
– tremors,
– seizures,
– diarrhoea,
– weakness,
– death (which can occur within 24 hours)
The fruit is highly toxic to animals and people, most likely causing death from kidney, liver failure and central nervous system problems.
If your pet ingests these berries please contact your veterinarian or one of our 24hr Pet Emergency Centres immediately.
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
In Australia, Halloween is getting bigger and bigger every year. With the cultural impact growing it’s a good idea to consider some safety issues for your pet.
**Trick-or-treat candies are not for pets
Chocolate in all forms, especially dark or baking chocolate can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Even non-chocolate candy is dangerous, as it may contain, xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and seizures.
**Take caution with your pet’s costume
Don’t dress your pet in a costume unless you know they’ll love it. Make sure it fits properly and is comfortable, doesn’t have any pieces that can easily be chewed off, and doesn’t interfere with your pet’s sight, hearing, breathing, opening its mouth, or moving.
**Don’t leave pets out in the yard on Halloween.
Dog and cat owners should consider keeping their pets in a secure location during the celebrations. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets. Loud excited kids dressed in unusual costumes can freak out pets. Dogs are especially territorial and may become anxious.
**Keep away from decorations
Keep lit candles out of reach of pets. Carved pumpkins or candles are very easily knocked over causing a fire hazard or burns.
**Make sure your pet has ID
There has been an increasing number of pets going missing on Halloween, ensure your pet has an identifying tag, engraved with your phone number. Having the proper identification will increase the chances that they will be returned.
If you have any pet safety concerns please call your local vet or one of 24-hour Pet Emergency Centres:
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
Day Light Savings Melbourne
Day Light Savings starts tomorrow Melbourne!
Please push your clock an hour forward.
ANIMAL ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY
We are OPEN 24 hours 7 days a week if your pet needs veterinary help.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Day Light Savings
****REMINDER****
Day Light Savings will start this Sunday for Melbourne.
Please push your clock an hour forward.
Animal Accident & Emergency is OPEN 24 hours 7 days a week if your pet needs veterinary help.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Look at those gorgeous amber eyes!
Vixen is a 15 year old long hair domestic cat who has just checked in at Animal Accident & Emergency for I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy.
I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy is for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats.
Vixen has been referred to us by Fitzroy Veterinary Hospital and will be under the care of Dr Linda Abraham while under going treatment.
I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/i131-cat-hyperthyroid-tre…
FLUTD is a major emergency as it can cause death. The urethra is tube that connects the bladder and penis. If this becomes blocked, you cannot urinate. In some cases the bladder will burst.
If you cannot urinate, you body starts to build up toxins from the kidneys. These toxins can cause death by affecting the heart and other organs. FLUTD can be a common problem in male cats.
If you notice that your cat is unwell, licking his genital area more than normal and straining to go to the toilet, then they should be checked. Other common signs can include frequently using the litter tray and only urinating a couple of drops. Sometimes you may see blood in the urine.
There are many causes of FLUTD. Sometimes a special diet is required to reduce crystals forming in the urine.
Animal Accident & Emergency have two 24 hour Animal Hospitals in Melbourne, which are ideally located in Essendon and Point Cook and both with easy freeway access and amble parking.
Our emergency vet clinics operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (including public holidays), and offer all the latest equipment and state of the art technology, as well as a 24 hour intensive care unit. Our dedicated team of emergency vets and nurses provide the highest standards of emergency vet care, critical care medicine and surgery, and are experienced in treating all emergencies from right across Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat. So when you bring your pet to Animal Accident & Emergency you can rest assured that your pet will receive the best and most advanced vet care available.
If you believe your cat is FLUTD or for any other veterinarian emergency, please contact one of our 24-hour animal emergency centres:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
If you require a 24-hour emergency vet in Melbourne please contact one of our two Pet Emergency Centres:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Our 24-hour emergency vet centres CARE for injured or sick pets anytime of the day. An emergency veterinary clinic is not the same as most vet clinics. Our aim is to work with your personal Vet to provide the best possible vet CARE for your pet.
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/24-hour-emergency-vet-melbourne.html
A common cause of toxicity in cats presented to emergency vet clinics is the application and/or accidental exposure to canine insecticide and flea products containing the active ingredient permethrin.
Permethrin is part of the “pyrethroid“ class of toxins which affect the central nervous system. As a general rule, any product containing pyrethroids should not be used in cats as they are very sensitive to these toxins.
Clinical signs usually occur within hours of exposure and affected cats can exhibit signs of seizures, muscle tremors, shaking, drooling and vomiting. Affected patients require emergency vet care to control and treat seizures and muscle tremors.
If you have any concerns about your cat having come into contact with permethrin or pyrethroid containing products then do not hesitate to contact your local animal emergency hospital.
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
With Mothers Day approaching this weekend, we thought it was important to write about Lily Flower Toxicity in Cats.
Lily flowers are toxic for cats and can cause death. Toxicities in pets are a common cause of vet emergency. Lily toxicity is seen most often during holidays and on special occasions such as Valentine’s day and Mother’s day when flower bouquets are given as gifts.
Many lily species are toxic to felines and can include, but not limited to:
• Easter lily
• Tiger lilyR
• Rubrum lily
• Stargazer Lily
• Japanese show lily
• Red lily
• Western lily
• Wood lily
• Day lily
All parts of the plant are toxic and a small amount, even 1-2 leaves, can be lethal. Toxicity can cause kidney failure, vomiting, diarrhea and seizures.
If your cat potentially ingested lily’s prompt and early intervention often leads to a good prognosis, however once clinical signs develop and progress then it may be too late to reverse the damage done.
If you have any concern about your cat ingesting Lilies you should contacting your local vet or 24 hour pet hospital immediately as lily ingestion is an animal emergency.
Animal Accident & Emergency
will be OPEN 24/7 during the Easter Holiday period.
Our Pet Emergency Centres are always open as we never close even on public holidays.
If you need a vet on Good Friday, Easter Sunday or Easter Monday
then please contact one of our 24 hour Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne:
Along with being able to deal with any animal emergency, Animal Accident & Emergency also houses a critical care unit. This is complementary to our 24 hour vet – Melbourne pets requiring intensive care have access to experienced care around the clock.
Critically ill patients have access to central venous pressure monitoring, positive pressure ventilation or respirators, enteral feeding and parenteral feeding catheters and more.
Critically ill animals will likely need the assistance of a team of doctors.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Happy Labour Day from the staff at AAE
Pet Emergency Centre Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Pet Emergency Centre Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
OPEN 24/7 including public holidays
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN Labour Day!
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 over the long Labour Day weekend.
We have two Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne which will be OPEN 24 hours on Labour Day.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700 Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Happy Labour Day!
OPENING HOURS FOR LABOUR DAY WEEKEND
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 over the long Labour Day weekend.
We have two Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne which will be OPEN 24 hours on Labour Day.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700 Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Happy Labour Day!
Southpaws is excited to announce that we are now seeing cases and performing surgery at Animal Accident and Emergency in Point Cook.
Dr. Charles Kuntz is consulting on Friday mornings and operating on Friday afternoons.
AAE Point Cook is equipped with a new pencil cone CT scanner which provides excellent image quality with minimal radiation exposure. All types of surgical procedures including oncologic surgery, neurosurgery, orthopaedic surgery (including arthroscopy) and soft tissue surgery will be offered at Point Cook.
Please call Southpaws on (03) 9553 1775 to book appointments. Email info@southpaws.com.au if you have questions.
As always Southpaws surgical consultations at Animal Accident & Emergency Point Cook are free-of-charge
It’s time for a shout out to one of our patients!
Kitty is a very cuddly cat who has been under the care of Dr Linda Abraham for the last week. Kitty was referred from Altona Veterinary Clinic for treatment of an over active thyroid.
Kitty is one of the many cats that Dr Linda has treated with radioactive Iodine (i131) for Feline Hyperthyroidism. For most cats that are treated, their over active thyroid returns to normal and they loose the need for daily medication. Removing the need for daily medication greatly improves the health and well being for the pet and owner.
Animal Accident & Emergency Point Cook, is one of limited facilities in Australia that are licenced to perform treatment for cats. We perform the service weekly and are happy to discuss options for therapy with you.
Kitty will be discharged today.
For more information on I131 cat treatment click on the following link: I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Animal Accident & Emergency is proud to announce the introduction of I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy for the treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats.
Our Radioactive Therapy Unit has been designed to ensure safety of our team and patients within our facilities. Our therapy unit is housed within our current facility and allows a comfortable stay in a quiet, temperature controlled environment for patients undergoing therapy.
The AAE I131 Radioactive Iodine Therapy Unit will be run by Dr Linda Abraham who has considerable experience in treating hyperthyroid cats with radio-iodine.
Bookings can be made by contacting our Medicine service at:
Animal Accident & Emergency Point Cook. Ph: 03 8368 7400.
Histories and any management questions are to be emailed to medicine@animalemergency.com.au
For more information on the process please click on the link: I131 Cat Hyperthyroid Treatment Process
Animal Accident & Emergency have a created a page for local lost pets within Melbourne.
What to do when you loose your pet:
For a list of local Animal shelters and Council number click on the attached link:
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/lost-pets.html
If you think your pet is suffering from heat stroke, please call Animal Accident & Emergency or contact your local vet without delay.
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
OPENING HOURS FOR AUSTRALIA DAY WEEKEND
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 over the long Australia Day weekend.
We have two Pet Emergency Centres in Melbourne which will be OPEN 24 hours on Australia Day.
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Happy Australia Day!
An Australian First – Fidex CT Scanner
Animal Accident & Emergency would like to introduce an Australian first. In December, AAE installed a CT scanner in our Point Cook 24Hr Emergency Centre. The CT unit by Fidex is a major advancement in technology and unique in many ways. Traditional CT units are common place in human and pet medicine. They work by taking several hundred radiographs and then using computer programs to “join” the images together. This allows the Doctor to look at body organs and structures in much more detail.
The new unit now operating at Animal Accident & Emergency uses the latest technology to combine a traditional style CT unit with an X-Ray unit and Fluoroscopy. The combination allows us to combined three different devices into one unit.
At present you would need three different units to perform a CT, an X-Ray or a Fluoroscopic study. The Fidex combines the functionality of the three different machines into one user friendly unit. One of the functions we love is seeing the images in a 3D perspective. It helps the pet owner visualise the problem that their pet has. We can even strip back tissue layers which is great for planning for complex cancer surgeries.
The Fidex unit has some major benefits to patients. It is able top generate X -Ray images using minimal doses of radiation. This means that we can take radiographs or perform a CT and the amount of radiation that the patient experience is far less. It also increases the safety for the Vet Team.
The unit itself is environmentally friendly. Traditional CT units require substantial amounts electricity to operate. They require a specialised air-conditioning plant to prevent them from overheating. Our Fidex uses minimal electricity, runs in any standard air-conditioned building and plugs directly into a normal PowerPoint. This also dramatically reduces the running costs of the unit which means savings for pet owners.
The unit is small, compact but mighty and we were able to install it in a standard sized room.
Our Fidex unit is the first in Australia and is truly a unique installation. The ease of use, lower radiation emission and speed of the unit means that we can provide sick pets with advanced imaging at a cost effective price. It provides more options then currently available at most veterinary centres.
Our specialists and Emergency team are using the Fidex for a variety of sick pet conditions. With trauma and road accidents, we can scan for internal bleeding as well as bone fractures. Our Medicine Specialist Dr Linda Abraham is able to perform cancer scans which help identify forms of cancer within the body.
The following are some of the used of the unit:
To view the Fidex unit in action click on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJQE1ZBkzvQ
For more information contact our 24hr Pet Emergency Centre: (03) 8368 7400
Tips to Keep Your Pets Cool in Summer
Know the Signs of Heat Stress:
If you think your pet is suffering from heat stroke, please call Animal Accident & Emergency or contact your local vet without delay.
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 during the New Year period should you need us.
WE NEVER CLOSE
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Wishing you and your fur babies a very Happy New Year.
Vet Open Xmas Day Melbourne
Animal Accident & Emergency will be OPEN 24/7 during the Christmas and the New Year period should you need us.
WE NEVER CLOSE
Wishing you and your fur babies a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Here’s how to keep your pet safe and healthy over the festive season:
Christmas decorations, Tinsel & flashing lights
Dogs & Cat’s love tinsel, bubbles, flashing lights they see it as a “toy” to play with or carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow and hence lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery.
Safety tips for pets:
In the event of an emergency on Christmas Day, call AAE After Hours Emergency Veterinary Hospital on:
(03) 9379 0700 – Essendon Fields
(03) 8368 7400 – Point Cook
Animal Accident & Emergency is open 24 hours 7 days a week, Melbourne Pet Emergency Centre.
Along with being able to deal with any animal emergency 24/7, Animal Accident & Emergency also houses a critical care unit at our Animal Hospitals. This is complementary to our Melbourne pets requiring intensive care, they have access to experienced care around the clock.
Critically ill patients have access to central venous pressure monitoring, positive pressure ventilation or respirators, enteral feeding and parenteral feeding catheters and more.
Critically ill animals will likely need the assistance of a team of emergency specialist vets.
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/contact-us-1.html
Animal Accident & Emergency is seeking applicants for a full time emergency and critical care veterinarian. Our hospitals are purpose-built 24-hour emergency, critical care and referral facilities, with the latest up-to-date equipment. We have everything you will need to provide the best standard of care including multi-parameter patient monitors, in-house laboratory, ultrasound, endoscopy, digital radiography, mechanical ventilation, CT and fluoroscopy. The position will involve shift work at both our Essendon and Point Cook centres and would suit applicants looking to further their career within emergency and critical care.
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
Our successful candidate will have access to the following:
Employment is shift based, with rotations involving day, night, weekend and public holiday shifts.
The standard working week is 37.5 hrs.If you are interested in working with a great team with plenty of support and challenging and rewarding cases, please send your application to jobs@animalemergency.com.au
Animal Accident and Emergency (AAE) is a purpose-built animal emergency centre servicing Melbourne. It provides 24hr animal emergency services. There are two great locations – Essendon and Point Cook.
Our Melbourne Vet Emergency Centres provide dedicated emergency care 24/7. We are not just an after hours vet clinic. Our whole focus is emergency and critical care.
If you require treatment for an animal emergency, Melbourne’s AAE offers:
Rufus is a 9 month old Choc Point Burmese cat who presented to Animal Accident & Emergency as a referral from his regular vet for ongoing care after being diagnosed with a tail pull injury.
What is a Tail Pull Injury:
It is a common injury caused when a car runs over the cat’s tail pulling apart the sacral-lumbar or coccygeal vertebrae and stretching the nerves that go to the bladder, rectum, and tail.
Signs: Tail hangs loosely – paralysed tail, urinary and/or faecal incontinence to partial loss of sciatic nerve function.
Treatment: Cats will need to be seen by a vet and hospitalised so the bladder can be manually emptied and receive treatment to attempt to heal the nerves controlling the urination and defecation. The tail may need to be amputated.
All spinal cord injuries require immediate veterinary attention. Protect the cat’s spine and use a blanket or towel to lift the cat onto a flat surface like a board before transporting to the vet.
Rufus is currently receiving critical care at our Essendon Pet Emergency Centre, the staff at AAE wish Rufus a speedy recovery.
Pictured above: Rufus enjoying a neck rub from Dr Nicole Trigg after his morning examination.
Halloween can be a lot of fun for you and your pets.
Just be careful and make sure your #pet’s #safety is in mind, here are some tips:
Costumes: If you want to dress your pet up for Halloween, that’s great but only if your pet doesn’t mind it as some animals can become very anxious. Make sure any costumes you put on your pets doesn’t constrict them and they are able to bark/meow and move freely.
Candy: Chocolate can be poisonous to dogs and cats and lots of sugar is bad for their digestion.
Trick-or-Treating: If you’re opening up your home to trick-or-treaters pets can be scared of kids in costumes so it’s better to have them in a safe place. Some might actually run out the door, so please be sure they have their ID tags on and are microchipped.
Happy Halloween for those celebrating today!!!
Animal Accident & Emergency: 24hour Pet Emergency Centre
1. Locking a dog in a car, even if the car windows are open it is too dangerous.
2. Exercising with a dog when there is excessive heat and humidity
3. Leaving your outdoor dog in the sweltering heat without adequate water or shelter/shade.
Some signs of heat stroke:
-Constant panting
-Dry gums that feel sticky to the touch
-Dark red gums
-Vomiting
-Wobbly
-Seizures
-Dark coloured urine
-Diarrhoea
-Difficulty breathing
-Collapse
If your pet is suffering from a heat stroke, then we need to see your pet as soon as possible.
• Cool them down with fans and water
• Phone us
• Drive to our emergency centres as safe as possible.
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
Pet First Aid WorkShop
*Sunday 3rd August 2014 from 9am – 12pm
*Sunday 17th August 2014 from 9am – 12pm
This course is open to the public and recommended especially …for those who work with pets – foster carers, pet sitters, rescue workers etc
The course will cover common emergencies and first aid:
– CPR – practice on a dog mannequin
– Rescue breaths
– Bleeding
– Bandaging
– Shock
– Choking
– Bites & stings
– Burns
– Eye injuries
– Ear injuries
– Nose injuries
– Broken bones
– Sprains
– Heat stress
– Seizures
– Poisoning/toxicities
To enroll or for more information please click on the link below: http://www.petemergencystore.com.au/Pet First Aid Course
Dr Yenny Indrawirawan BAnimSc, BVSc, MANZCVS (ECC)
RESIDENT VET
Animal Accident and Emergency, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Dr Yenny Indrawirawan has had a paper published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
Tramadol toxicity in a cat: case report and literature review of serotonin syndrome
Overview: Tramadol toxicity has not previously been reported in a cat.
Case summary: This report describes the clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of tramadol toxicity, manifesting as serotonin syndrome, in a cat in Australia.
Practical relevance: For any cat with suspicion of serotonin syndrome, in particular secondary to tramadol overdose, it is recommended that decontamination, monitoring and supportive care are instituted as soon as clinical signs develop. Prolonged hospitalisation may be required in the event of a severe overdose.
Literature review: The literature relating to the pharmacology of tramadol and tramadol overdose, clinical manifestations of tramadol overdose, and serotonin syndrome in cats, humans and dogs is reviewed. Recommended treatment for tramadol overdose and serotonin syndrome is also discussed.
If you would like a copy please contact Dr Yenny Indrawirawan via Email: y.indrawirawan@animalemergency.com.au
Mischka is a 9 month old poodle cross that was referred to our Essendon 24 Hr Vet Emergency Hospital stabilization after being stung by a bee.
Mischka was examined by Dr Eugene Ong one of our Emergency Vets and found to be displaying signs of a severe anaphylactic reaction (muddy coloured mucous membranes, poor blood pressure, weakness, altered mentation, bloody diarrhea , vomiting and excessively fast heart rate). It was also noticed during examination that Mischka had abnormal bruising under her skin suggesting that she had possibly developed a coagulopathy (bleeding disorder that occurs with life threatening anaphylactic reactions)
Given the severity of her condition, any delay in receiving emergency treatment would compromise her chances of survival. Mischka was admitted to our Pet ICU for intravenous fluid therapy as we attempted to correct her blood pressure and reduce the risk of her developing further organ damage. In addition, comprehensive blood tests were performed in-house to assess for changes in red and white cell levels, blood coagulation times and liver and kidney parameters.
Mischka’s blood results indicated that she had lost a significant amount of blood and protein from diarrhoea and bleeding into the gastrointestinal tract. More importantly however, her blood tests confirmed our earlier suspicions that Mischka had developed a coagulopathy (bleeding disorder) which would be fatal unless treated appropriately.
Fortunately, Mischka responded very well to our initial fluid treatment and we were soon able to restore her blood pressure to normal levels and commence the next stage of treatment for coagulopathy. A plasma transfusion was performed over the course of the next 4 hours to replace the coagulation factors that had been lost as a result of her anaphylactic episode. During this time, a dedicated nurse was on hand with specialized monitoring equipment (ECG, blood pressure monitor, pulse oximetry) to keep a close eye on Mischka for any signs of a transfusion reaction. Post-transfusion, another blood test was repeated and showed that her blood coagulation times had returned to normal.
Over the next 48 hours, Melbourne Animal Hospital kept a round the clock watch on Mischka as we continued to manage her symptoms of vomiting and bloody diarrhoea. Being the plucky little fighter that she was, Mischka bounced back remarkably and soon regained her appetite and zest for life. 48 hours after her near-death experience, Mischka was on her way home with her very relieved mom.
We wish Mischka a speedy recovery!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an anaphylactic Reaction?
https://animalaccidentemergency.wordpress.com/2014/05/19/emergency-vet-treatment-for-anaphylaxis/
An anaphylactic reaction is a hypersensitivity reaction of the body to a foreign material or antigen. Common antigens in animals include insect stings, drugs and vaccines. Once developed, animals tend to show clinical signs within half an hour of the exposure. Clinical signs may vary in severity from mild itch or swelling and progress rapidly to life-threatening situations such as shock as seen with Mischka. As such, anaphylactic reactions should always be treated seriously and we recommend that your animal is seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible to determine if any medical treatment is required.
Repeat episodes and the use of EpiPen®
When an animal suffers a repeat exposure, clinical signs may be more severe than the first exposure and they should be seen urgently by a veterinarian should they develop any clinical signs.
In humans, EpiPen® (Adrenaline [Australia] / Epinephrine [North America] auto-injectors) are commonly carried by people at risk of suffering anaphylaxis so that they may be administered immediately once a reaction develops. Not surprisingly, there has been interest within the veterinary community regarding the benefits of such a practice in veterinary medicine and owners often query if they too should have an EpiPen® on standby so they too may administer it to their pets in the event of a repeat exposure.
At this juncture, we cannot recommend the use of EpiPen® for pets for several reasons. Firstly, adrenaline is used for the treatment of anaphylaxis in humans to stop and reverse bronchospasm (airway spams) and airway swelling due to the risk of death from asphyxiation. This is however an uncommon situation in small animals who instead tend to develop severe gastrointestinal signs and blood volume deficiencies. These effects cannot be corrected by the administration of adrenaline alone and require large volumes of intravenous fluids as given to Mischka when she first presented to us.
Secondly, animal requirements for adrenalin vary markedly from humans therefore attempting to administer an appropriate dose with an EpiPen® is challenging. Administering an inappropriate dose is risky and can be fatal.
Finally, precious treatment time may be wasted when trying to administer adrenaline and may put the person trying to administer it at risk of getting bitten by a highly distressed animal. EpiPen® needles are very short and therefore administration of adrenaline by owners under the skin to an animal with poor peripheral circulation is unlikely to be of any significant benefit.
Based on the above reasons, we cannot recommend the use of EpiPen® in animals at this point in time until there is evidence to justify its use in anaphylactic animals.
Animal Accident & Emergency will be at LaManna Direct – Essendon Fields this Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
Bring your Pet for a free healthy check by one of our emergency vets.
Sonia Ross will also be there to give “Pet First Aid” tips.
If you believe that your pet is unwell contact us directly at one of our 24 hour Animal Hospitals in Melbourne:
Essendon Fields: (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook: (03) 8368 7400
Always Open, We Always Care
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/
An anaphylactic reaction (or anaphylaxis) occurs when pets become hypersensitive and react to foreign substances invading the body, such as toxins induced through insect bites. When pets have an anaphylactic reaction it is a highly serious animal emergency that requires immediate treatment at a 24 hour veterinary clinic, as it can progress to anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylactic reactions can be caused by a range of different foreign substances invading the pet’s body and requires previous (or excessive) exposure to that substance for anaphylactic reactions to occur. The pet develops hypersensitivity to the foreign substance causing their immune system to overreact to the stimulus when they next encounter the same substance. The immune system then produces immunoglobulin that reacts with cells in the body called mast cells which release histamine. Release of histamine results in the animal developing clinical signs including hives, swollen face, vomiting, etc. These cells are then sensitised and will have a more severe reaction the next time they are exposed to the same foreign substance.
The types of foreign substances that can result in anaphylactic reactions are:
• Insect bites
• Medications (e.g. antibiotics)
• Vaccines
• Toxins in the environment (e.g. cigarette smoke, perfume, air fresheners, etc)
• Chemicals and poisons
• Food (similar to humans, this can be any type of food that the animal is allergic to)
The clinical signs of anaphylactic reactions displayed by pets will depend on the type of exposure, the amount of foreign substance that has entered the pet’s body and the pet’s resistance to the foreign substance. As anaphylactic reactions worsen with each exposure, it is important that pet owners do everything possible in the future to prevent their pets from being exposed to the foreign substance again. Each time pets are exposed they will be at greater risk of having severe reactions and progressing to anaphylactic shock, which can result in death.
The main clinical signs or anaphylactic reactions that pet owners need to be aware of are:
• Itching
• Red swellings or hives
• Swollen/puffy face
• Cyanosis (bluish tinge to the tongue and gums)
• Excessive salivating and drooling
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• High temperature
• Respiratory distress
• Collapse
• Anaphylactic shock
To diagnose anaphylaxis, 24hr emergency vets will look at the clinical signs presented as well as the pet’s medical history and previous exposure to the foreign substance. Knowledge of past exposure to the foreign substance is very helpful, so it is important that pet owners inform vets if this is the case. Blood and urine tests may also be performed by veterinarians to determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment for anaphylaxis will depend on the type of foreign substance that the pet is reacting to (i.e. insect bites, food, etc.). However, the first step that 24hr vets will always take if possible is to remove any objects that may be causing the reaction (e.g. bee stingers), and stabilise the pet, in particular, ensuring that the pet is able to breathe normally as anaphylaxis can cause respiratory distress. For mild cases of anaphylactic reactions, anti-histamines and anti-inflammatory medications will need to be administered to treat the clinical signs, followed by ongoing monitoring in a 24 hour pet hospital if needed. Pets experiencing mild reactions have an excellent chance of full recovery.
For more severe cases, when pets having an anaphylactic reaction progress to a state of anaphylactic shock, it becomes a highly critical and life threatening animal emergency. Pets in anaphylactic shock need to be hospitalised in a 24 hour pet hospital and given adrenalin, IV fluid therapy and oxygen therapy (via a breathing tube). They will also require further medical treatment and ongoing close monitoring by emergency vets and nurses. However, when treated quickly and with the appropriate ongoing pet care, cases of anaphylactic shock still have a reasonable chance of recovery.
Animal Accident & Emergency have two 24 hour pet emergency centres in Melbourne, which are ideally located in Essendon and Point Cook – both with easy freeway access and ample parking. Our animal hospitals are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (including public holidays), and offer all the latest equipment and state of the art technology, as well as a 24 hour intensive care unit. Our dedicated team of emergency vets and nurses provide the highest standards of emergency vet care, critical care medicine and surgery, and are experienced in treating every vet emergency from right across Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat. So when you bring your pet to Animal Accident & Emergency you can rest assured that they will receive the best and most advanced vet care available.
If you believe your pet may be having an anaphylactic reaction, or for any veterinarian emergency, please phone one of our 24 hour animal emergency centres:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Always Open, We Always Care
Animal Accident & Emergency is running a 3 hour Pet First Aid workshop course.
This course is open to the public and recommended for those who work with pets – foster carers, pet sitters, rescue workers etc
For more information or to enrol, click on the link:
http://www.petemergencystore.com.au/pet-first-aid-3hr-workshop.html
Always Open, We Always Care
Our 24 Hr Pet Emergency Centres often see cases of trauma. As a Melbourne Animal Hospital that is Always Open, we understand what is required in such a pet emergency. If your pet is injured from a significant trauma, ensure you speak to veterinarian to ensure that X-Rays / Radiographs of the chest (Thorax) were taken. Even if your pet looks well after a trauma, you should have them checked.
Dr Jason Arlaud one of our team of emergency vets has summarised the following article for you from “Small Animal Critical Care” by Silverstein and Hopper.
Diaphragmatic hernias occur when there is a “hole” in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a sheet of tissue that separates the thorax, where the lungs and heart reside from the abdomen where the: bladder, intestine, kidneys, liver, stomach and spleen reside.
Dogs and cats may be born with a diaphragmatic hernia (congenital) which is rare or develop one from an unknown cause (iatrogenic) or as a consequence of trauma.
Blunt trauma due to vehicular accidents, high-rise syndrome (falling from apartments) or dog fights are the most likely causes. Trauma accounts for eighty five percent of diaphragmatic hernias in dogs and cats. In traumatic diaphragmatic hernias usually one or more of the abdominal organs (stomach, liver, intestine etc.) has as a consequence of force, been pushed through the diaphragm into the chest, causing a tear in the diaphragm. Once one or more abdominal organs are in the chest there is the potential to affect the heart and lung’s normal function. This leads to difficulty getting enough oxygen into the body and the animal breathing at a faster rate. Complications may be fatal.
Animals that present to veterinary clinics and are subsequently diagnosed with a diaphragmatic hernias may vary in their breathing pattern from normal to struggling to breath (dyspnoeic). Their breathing may worsen hours after they were injured in some cases. Dyspnoeic animals will have a fast breathing rate, they may have their mouth open and neck stretched to try and get as much oxygen into their lungs as possible.
Organs most likely to be pushed through the diaphragm are: stomach, liver, intestine, omentum and spleen. The liver is the organ most likely to herniate. Most insults occur on the right side of the diaphragm possibly due to the stomach sitting on the left side and being gas filled it may cushion some of the force.
Diaphragmatic hernias are suspected when certain findings are observed on examination including: borborygmus (stomach sounds) over the chest, abnormal heart and lung sounds, displacement of heart, lungs or trachea by abdominal organs, pleural effusion or an incomplete diaphragm on radiograph and signs or history consistent with trauma.
Other associated injuries may include: pleural effusion, pulmonary contusions (bruising), pneumothorax (air in the chest cavity) chest wall disease (broken ribs).
What often kills a pet with such trauma is the damage that occurs to the lungs and lung tissue. Usually if a trauma was severe enough to rupture the diaphragm, it will have caused bruising to the lungs. If the lungs are severely damaged then pets can die, despite all treatment.
Treatment involves stabilisation from shock and eventual surgery. This type of injury is very painful and we do use a significant amount of pain medication. Our main concern in our Melbourne Animal Hospital is ensuring your pet is in the best possible condition for surgery to occur. Our 24Hr Pet Emergency Centres provide some of the most advanced monitoring equipment available. Our Blood Gas unit helps identify problems with their lungs. The tests are run as needed and we have the results available within 1 minute of collection. In the most severe cases we use a ventilator to help improve breathing and lung function. Ventilators are not common at most veterinary clinics and for diaphragmatic hernias they may make the difference between your pet surviving.
If your pet is involved in an accident then we urge you to have them checked by a Vet Now Open. We have two convenient locations for our Melbourne Pet Emergency Centres.
We are Always Open, We always CARE
Essendon Airport – Essendon Fields 9379 0700
Point Cook – 8368 7400
What is Pyometra?
Pyometra is a severe uterine infection, causing inflammation and the accumulation of pus in the uterus, which occurs in entire female dogs and cats and can happen at any age. However, there is a higher chance of it occurring in older animals, especially when they go through several estrus cycles (heat) without becoming pregnant, as the changes to the uterine wall can further promote the disease. Pyometra is a highly seriously condition that requires immediate and aggressive emergency pet care at a 24 hour vet clinic. If left untreated, pyometra can be fatal.
Pyometra is the result of bacteria gaining access to the uterus through the cervix, which is normally tightly closed except for when the animal is in season. When pregnancy does not occur during the heat cycle, especially for multiple cycles, the lining of the uterus begins to thicken and will keep doing so each cycle, which will often result in cysts forming. When the uterus is normal, the invading bacteria are easily eradicated. However, when the uterus becomes thickened and cystic, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, which leads to infection and the animal becoming seriously ill.
The clinical signs of pyometra will generally show between 6-8 weeks after heat, but the signs vary depending on the type of the disease that is present. There are two types of pyometra:
The main clinical signs that pet owners need to be aware of are:
If pet owners ever notice their animal displaying any of these signs, they need to contact a 24hr veterinarian immediately, as deterioration can occur very rapidly.
Animals that are brought in early may only display slight vaginal discharge and no other clinical signs. However, most pets are brought in when the disease is more advanced and showing additional signs. In order to diagnose pyometra, 24hr emergency vets will need to examine the pet’s medical history and perform a physical examination and diagnostic tests, such as x-rays, ultrasounds and blood tests.
The main treatment for pyometra is to firstly stabilise the pet with IV fluids and pain relief, and then surgically remove the infected uterus. The surgery is very similar to a routine spey (ovariohysterectomy) and has a high success rate if animals are brought in early. However, it is often more complicated due to the pus in the uterus causing risk of further infection in the abdomen (peritonitis).
After surgery, pets will need to remain in a 24 hour pet hospital for several days for ongoing monitoring and intensive care. After this time, pets will then be sent home with pain relief and antibiotics and will need to rest for a few days and be closely monitored. They will also require a follow up appointment at the veterinary clinic in 10-14 days to remove the sutures.
The alternative treatment of pyometra is a medical approach, but this is rarely recommended due to being quite complex and having a high chance of nasty side-effects occurring. The medical treatment also has a low success rate and pyometra is likely to occur again after the pet’s next season.
Animal Accident & Emergency have two 24 hour pet emergency centres in Melbourne, which are ideally located in Essendon and Point Cook and both with easy freeway access and amble parking. Our emergency vet clinics operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (including public holidays), and offer all the latest equipment and state of the art technology, as well as a 24 hour intensive care unit. Our dedicated team of emergency vets and nurses provide the highest standards of emergency vet care, critical care medicine and surgery, and are experienced in treating all emergencies from right across Melbourne, Geelong and Ballarat. So when you bring your pet to Animal Accident & Emergency you can rest assured that your pet will receive the best and most advanced vet care available.
If you believe your pet may have anaemia or for any emergency, please phone one of our 24-hour Animal Accident & Emergency Centres:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
Always Open, We Always Care
Animal Accident & Emergency would like to wish everyone a safe and a very Happy Easter
Over the Easter Holidays our 24 Hr Animal Hospitals will be available to help you at anytime. Our Emergency Vet Hospitals have Veterinarians on shift at all times. Both our centres are located so that they can service Melbourne and surrounding suburbs. Our Point Cook 24Hr Pet Emergency Centre services Geelong and the surf Coast.
If you have concerns or you are looking for a vet that is now open, please phone our Essendon Pet Emergency Centre on 9379 0700 or our Point Cook 24 Hr Emergency Animal Hospital on 8368 7400.
Our Vet Clinics are Always Open, We always CARE
On Anzac Day our 24 Hr Animal Hospitals will be available to help you at anytime. Our Emergency Vet Hospitals have Veterinarians on shift at all times. Both our centres are located so that they can service Melbourne and surrounding suburbs. Our Point Cook 24Hr Pet Emergency Centre services Geelong and the surf Coast.
If you have concerns or you are looking for a vet that is now open, please phone our Essendon Pet Emergency Centre on 9379 0700 or our Point Cook 24 Hr Emergency Animal Hospital on 8368 7400.
Our Vet Clinics are Always Open, We always CARE
Summer is now officially over, but while the warm weather lingers so will snakes. The majority of pet snake bite cases occur on days that are over 20°C and most commonly between August to April, as snakes are more active during the warmer months and days. Snake bites occurring in August and September are often the most severe due to their venom being extra potent after waking from hibernation. However, it is wise to be cautious of snakes all year round, even during winter, as snakes will only fall into, and remain in, hibernation if the weather is cool enough… and they are extra grumpy when woken early.
While snakes aren’t naturally aggressive, snake bites in animals are more prevalent than in humans largely due to the different instinctual reactions when a snake is found. Dogs are very inquisitive and playful, so they will often stick their snout into dangerous areas and give chase to a fleeing snake, making the most common bite locations on their face and legs. Dogs are also extra vulnerable to snake bites as they are often bitten multiple times due to their playful nature. Whereas cats have a hunter instinct and will likely want to pounce on anything that moves, especially with the movement of a snake being reminiscent of common cat toys.
The best way to avoid your pets being bitten by snakes is to be extra careful and mindful of your pets in areas where snakes are commonly found, such as: parks, long grass, under rocks and fallen logs, anywhere near water bodies (including garden ponds), under your house, in the garden shed, and anywhere dark, secluded and warm. Also, you should always ensure that your dog is on a leash when going for a walk so that you will be able to restrain them if a snake crosses your path.
In Victoria, the most common snake bites are caused by Tiger Snakes, Brown Snakes and Red-Bellied Black Snakes. While it is good to know what type of snake has bitten your pet, it is not essential, as a snake venom detection kit can be used to determine the venom type. So never take any risks trying to catch the snake, but if the snake is already dead then it is good to take it with you to the vet. If you do come across a snake at home, it’s best to leave the snake where you found it and close any doors or gates if possible to block it in and then call a professional snake catcher or wildlife carer to remove it.
If you ever suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake then the best thing to do is keep yourself and your pet calm and act quickly, as time is of the essence and there is a higher chance of recovery if treated early. It’s also best to carry your pet if possible, as walking will increase venom circulation. Early signs that can appear within minutes after a snake bite are acute vomiting, diarrhoea and becoming weak and wobbly on their feet and potentially collapsing. These early signs are often followed by an apparent quick recovery, but it is still essential to seek medical care as quickly as possible as they can deteriorate rapidly after this stage. Other signs are red urine, bleeding from gums and mouth, salivating, dilated pupils and paralysis. Note that animals that have been bitten by snakes do not suffer from a lack of appetite or any swelling or necrosis like they may with spider bites, so do not expect these signs.
Animal Accident & Emergency have two 24 hour emergency centres in Essendon and Point Cook that are fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology to treat all emergencies right across Melbourne. Antivenom is always kept on the premises and our experienced team of emergency vets and nurses are always at the ready to care for your pets.
In case of a snake bite or any emergency, please phone Animal Accident & Emergency:
Essendon Fields (03) 9379 0700
Point Cook (03) 8368 7400
We’re always open, We always CARE
Animal Accident & Emergency is a full service Pet Emergency and Critical Care Centre. We are open 24/7 and often receive patients from Albert Park. As a Melbourne Animal Hospital we will care for your pet if they are sick or injured. Our team includes Specialists in Internal Medicine and Emergency and Critical Care.
There is easy Access from the freeway and plenty of safe parking. We are not just open after hours, we are a 24 hour vet hospital that specialised in Emergency and Critical Care.
Two great locations: Essendon Fields and Point Cook.
The weather bureau has predicted heatwave conditions for at least the next 4 days. The chance of heat stress for your pets will be very high during this period.
Just like with people, our elderly pets or those with chronic diseases are at a very high risk. If your pet has a chronic illness, then you need to take extra care. The heat wave may affect your pet if they have the following chronic illnesses:
• Diabetes
• Chronic Heart Disease – especially if your pet takes diuretics (frusemide)
• Chronic airway disease
• Cushings or Addisons
• Chronic Renal Failure
• Receiving “steroids” for immune diseases
• Pets that have vomiting or diarrhoea – they will dehydrate very quickly
If your pet is classed as a “brachycephalic” (short squashed nose, for example a pug) then you need to take particular care.
These pets have trouble regulating their body temperature.
What to do:
• Any sign of illness – do not wait. Have your pet checked early rather than waiting
• Avoid exercising during the next few days
• Ensure there is plenty of drinking water – that cannot be knocked over
• If you have minimal shade at home – consider a doggy daycare or kennel your pet
• Ensure there is some form of cooling available – fans etc
Our 24Hr Pet Emergency Centres are available for advice or treatment at any time. Essendon 9379 0700; Point Cook 8368 7400;
#Firstaid #Animalhospital #Vetemergency
Animal Accident & Emergency is running 1 day Pet First Aid Courses on Sunday 1st & 15th December 2013.
Know what to do when your pet needs you the most!
The course will cover common emergencies and first aid such as:
•Rescue breaths
•CPR – practise on a dog mannequin
•Bleeding
•Bandaging
•Shock
Read more or apply online:
http://www.animalemergency.com.au/pet-first-aid-course.html — at Animal Accident Emergency Point Cook.
Animal Accident & Emergency 