Our June Newsletter

Farewell to Dr Greg & Welcome to Dr Amy

It’s with mixed emotions that we say a big (and slightly teary) goodbye to Dr Greg, who is heading off on an exciting new chapter. Greg has been offered a Medicine Internship at SASH in Adelaide, and while we’re incredibly sad to see him go, we’re also so proud. His passion for medicine will be put to amazing use, and we know he’ll make a real difference in his next adventure.

But Greg isn’t leaving MBV empty-handed — he’s passing the baton to a good friend and fellow vet school graduate, Dr Amy Yap!

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr Amy to the MBV family full-time. She brings a warm, caring approach and a genuine love for animals that we know you’ll feel from the moment you meet her. Dr Amy is an experienced and compassionate veterinarian who takes pride in providing thoughtful, tailored care to each patient. She has a particular soft spot for cats, and we’re sure our feline friends will love her just as much as we do.

Call in or book your next appointment with Amy and say hello!

She can’t wait to meet you and your pets!

Nurse Appointments are now just a Click Away!

Whether it's for nail trims, ongoing arthritis injections, worm & flea prevention advice, or just a friendly chat about your fur baby’s health — you can now book in with our amazing nurses online.

Our nurses also love supporting new puppy and kitten parents during those all-important first six months. From advice on preventative parasite treatments, diet, and grooming, to helping you feel confident about your pet’s care — they’re here to answer all your questions and guide you every step of the way. It’s also important to weigh your puppy or kitten regularly to make sure they’re on track and thriving. We have helpful handouts to take home so you don’t have to remember everything on the spot.

No hold music, no hassle, just hop online, pick a time that suits you, and our friendly nurses will be ready with treats, cuddles, and expert care for your furry friend!

You & Your Pet Campaign - Be part of the Wall of Fame‍

We know how much you love your pets — and we love seeing the special bond you share. That’s why we’re launching our You & Your Pet Campaign, and we want you to be a part of it.

You may have seen our current Wall of Fame, proudly featuring photos of your beloved pets. But now, we're going digital so we can make even more room for everyone! Every pet – and their person – can have a spot in our gallery of love, laughter and furry faces.

We're asking our amazing clients to send in a favourite photo of you and your pet together. Big smiles, silly selfies, cuddle puddles – whatever captures the love you share.

All photos will be proudly displayed on our digital screens in the clinic as a celebration of the beautiful relationships between our clients and their pets.

To take part, simply email your photo to enquiries@middlebrightonvet.com.au.

Exciting News to Share!

We’re thrilled to let you know that our wonderful receptionist, Ash, has welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world!

Samuel Ruben Eliahu arrived safely, weighing 3.72kg — a strong and healthy little boy, just like his Dad.

Both Mum and baby are doing well, and we couldn’t be happier for their growing family.

Please join us in sending Ash and her family all our love and warmest congratulations!

Animal News In Brief

540 days later: Valerie the sausage dog makes her way home

Valerie the dachshund has finally been reunited with her owners, Georgia Gardner and Josh Fishlock, after going missing on Kangaroo Island for 540 days. “She ran straight up to me - I just burst into tears,” Ms Gardner said. Found safe by Kangala Wildlife Rescue, Valerie was described as “strong and healthy… healthier than we are, honestly.” The couple are now helping her adjust back to home life in Albury with crate training and support from a behaviourist.

Click here to read the full story at ABC News.

Meet the dog helping farmers sniff out footrot

Dog trainer Jo Griffiths has successfully trained her labrador cross, Leroy, to detect footrot in sheep by scent - a condition that’s typically slow to identify. “When he finds it he will sit down next to the sheep,” said Ms Griffiths, who’s been working on the project near Naracoorte, SA. The idea came from researcher Dr Colin Earl, who said, “This idea can work… I’m sure it could be used across Australia.” Trials on local farms are now underway.

Click here to read the full story at ABC News.

Pets preferred over partners for stress relief, study shows

A global survey of 30,000 pet owners found that 65% prefer to de-stress with their pets rather than with partners, family, or friends. “Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe and be present can be a powerful wellness tool,” said Dr Tammie King from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. The study, by Mars and Calm, also found that 9 in 10 Aussies believe their pets have improved their mental wellbeing.

Click here for more tips at news.com.au.

Let’s C about CBD in pets

‍With increasing public awareness about the potential benefits of appropriately prescribed CBD oil products in humans, we’re receiving more questions about their use in dogs. So, roll up - our experienced team is here to weed the facts from the fiction!

What is CBD oil?

When we talk about CBD oil, we’re referring to a medication that contains cannabidiol. Cannabidiol stimulates certain receptors in the brain and body that play roles in functions such as appetite, inflammation, pain and nausea.

Products for use in pets in Australia must legally contain at least 98% CBD (plus up to 2% other active ingredients such as THC). This avoids the potentially negative “high” effects that can be associated with THC.

What can CBD be used for in pets?

CBD oil can be a useful aid in the treatment of conditions such as:

• Long-term pain and inflammation (such as arthritis or nerve pain)
• Disturbed sleep
• Anxiety
• Allergies

It’s important to note that CBD may not be the first-choice treatment for these issues. Depending on the pet’s particular needs and general health, there may be other drugs that are more effective, which we would recommend trialling first.

Are there any side effects?

CBD can cause drowsiness or wobbliness (although this is usually more of a problem at higher doses, or temporarily after dose increases), and symptoms of tummy upset.

More significantly, CBD can also affect the metabolism of other medications, such as pain relief or sedative drugs. This means that doses of other drugs may need to be reduced or increased to prevent ineffective underdosing or dangerous overdoses.

Can I use human CBD products for my pet?

Only veterinary-prescribed CBD products should be used in pets. This ensures that your pet receives a safe, effective dosage of CBD (+/- THC), without any added ingredients that could be toxic for them.

For more information on pain relief in pets, have a painless chat with our vets.