Cardiology: ECG and Echocardiography

Heart conditions can present in a variety of different ways, from a soft sound being detected at a routine evaluation, to difficulty in breathing or a change in fitness levels. A cardiac evaluation may include a chest x-ray, an ultrasound, and an ECG (electrocardiogram). Cardiology work is done in a manner that’s calm for your pet, usually with no sedation required. Dr Rosemary Dallas has an interest in Cardiology and we are well equipped to take care of most cardiac conditions.

Ultrasound

This is a non-invasive, state-of-the-art technology that uses sound waves to painlessly examine specific internal organs, primarily the heart and abdominal organs, in real time. Ultrasound examinations are used to evaluate heart function, abdominal organ structure, cancer screening and pregnancy.

Dental care

Animal oral health is vital for the general health of an animal. Gum disease causes pain, and can contribute to kidney and heart failure as well as being a source of infection in the body. We advise regular visits to the practice for us to check your pets’ teeth and gums together with their general clinical check-up.

Brushing your pet’s teeth and using appropriate foods can aid in keeping them clean.  But from time to time many pets will need a professional cleaning.  This is done with great care under general anaesthetic. Teeth are scaled to remove the buildup of plaque and calculus then polished to aid in keeping them clean.  Where appropriate, to prevent further discomfort to your pet, damaged teeth may be extracted. Of paramount importance is that your pet has a healthy and pain-free mouth.

Digital Radiology

Radiographs, or X-rays, help our veterinarians evaluate musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, reproductive and urinary systems. Our on-site equipment lets us timeously provide the images that assist in speedy diagnosis and treatment. Digital radiology is environmentally friendly and decreases radiation exposure to your pet.  Furthermore digital images can be easily uploaded for specialist comment on complex patients.

Dermatology

Our veterinarians provide dermatological services such as taking a detailed history, physical examinations, and medical diagnostics to diagnose and treat many skin ailments. Common diagnostics include skin scrapings, Wood’s Lamp examination, hair (fungal) culture, punch biopsies and blood tests.

Surgery

Surgical procedures are performed aseptically in fully equipped operating theatres. We are experienced in, and equipped for, most soft-tissue surgeries and certain orthopaedic surgeries including cruciate ligament repairs. Your pet will be admitted and immediately given a tranquilizer and painkiller to calm them and prepare them for the procedure. They’re closely monitored by highly trained staff throughout their surgery and recovery, and will have sophisticated monitoring equipment tracking their heart rate while under anaesthetic. Once your pet is safely recovering, one of our staff will give you a call with some feedback and to arrange a time for discharge. We refer some procedures to a specialist surgeon when necessary.

Diabetic care

Diabetes is a condition that we see frequently, particularly in certain breeds of dog and older male cats. Early detection enables faster and more effective treatment for diabetes, so keep an eye out for these symptoms:

• Drinks more water than usual
• ​Urinates more frequently, produces more urine per day, or has “accidents” in the house
• ​Always acts hungry, but maintains or loses weight
• ​Is less active or sleeps more
• ​Has thinning, dry, or dull hair

After an examination, your vet may recommend urine and blood tests to assess your pet’s glucose levels. A diagnosis of diabetes may feel overwhelming, but we’re here to support you through it. Recommendations may include diet, insulin, glucose testing and glucose curves, all discussed at a consultation after diagnosis, where all your concerns can be addressed. It’s a condition which can be successfully managed, and a diabetic pet can enjoy an excellent quality of life.

Physiotherapy & Acupuncture

We offer physiotherapy and medical acupuncture to treat a wide range of physical ailments. Physical therapy is often both diagnostic, helping to identify problem areas, and therapeutic, helping to resolve physical ailments. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, sterile needles, which cause a desired healing effect, into specific points along the body. It is one of the safest forms of medical treatment for pets when administered by a properly-trained veterinarian. It’s virtually pain-free and most pets relax, and sometimes fall asleep, during treatment. We use acupuncture by itself or in conjunction with traditional veterinary medical procedures to treat a wide variety of conditions your pet may be experiencing.