Mass confusion When it comes to body condition, we actually want your pet to get an “average” score, as this indicates that your pet is at their healthiest weight. A low score, however, suggests that your pet is underweight, whilst a high score indicates that your pet...
Not-so-simple fatty tumours Lipomas are fatty tumours that are commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs of any breed, but particularly breeds such as labradors, beagles, weimaraners and schnauzers. However, there can be more to these lumps than what first meets...
A healthy weight What if we told you that there was one thing that you could do to help keep your pet healthy, reduce their risk of many common diseases, and maximise their lifespan? The answer? Keep them in a slim, healthy body condition! Unfortunately, being...
“It’s my hormones!” Whilst changes in a pet’s body condition are often related to lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, did you know that there are some cases where significant weight changes can be the result of an underlying medical issue? This includes...
Butt-scooting Does your dog frequently scoot their bottom on the floor? As well as being embarrassing for you (as pets seem to save this “party trick” for when guests arrive!), it can be a symptom of an underlying issue in your pet that requires veterinary treatment!...
Get out of h-ear! It’s very common for us to see pets who unfortunately suffer from recurrent ear infections. Rest assured, we are familiar with how to best manage this very challenging issue! Making sure ear infections are properly treated If your pet ever suffers...
Strange bedfellows: mites and fleas Does the thought of fleas and mites give you a nasty, creepy-crawly feeling over your skin? Unfortunately, our pets can suffer these feelings of discomfort and more from actual fleas or mites if we leave them unprotected against...
Hypoallergenic diets for itchy pets If your pet suffers from recurrent bouts of ear or skin disease, you’ll know how frustrating the issue can be - not to mention uncomfortable for your poor pet! Ear or skin disease that recurs with no seasonal pattern can suggest a...
Why does my pet lick their feet? There are few things more irritating than your pet starting a thorough paw-licking session just as you’re falling asleep! Excessive foot licking is a pretty common problem in dogs, and can occur for a number of reasons. Skin irritation...
Each year Mira Mar Vets celebrates National Pet Dental Health Month in August by raising awareness of pet dental health, as well as providing great offers to our clients and their pets! Did you know that 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease...
As your trusted vet team, we want to reassure you that when we recommend a dental clean for your pet, it’s because we think they’ll really benefit from it! Good dental condition is so important for your pet’s quality of life and their general health. What is dental...
If our vets recommend that your pet needs teeth removed, it’s natural to feel a little worried. Therefore, we’d like to answer some common questions that we receive from owners in this situation. Will my animal be really sore after a tooth extraction? Rest assured...
You may have seen offers around for anaesthesia-free dentistry for pets at enticingly low prices, but these procedures are potentially painful and stressful for your pet. Performing dental examinations and procedures on pets requires vets to get in below the gum line...
Did you know that just like us, cats and dogs can have crooked or crowded teeth? Here are a few common troublesome dental situations we see: Crowded teeth Extra teeth can occur in pets six months of age and older, when temporary baby teeth are not shed during the...
Dental disease doesn’t just involve plaque and periodontal disease! Quite commonly, pets present to us with missing or damaged teeth. Many of these dental issues can cause problems for your dog or cat, and are therefore best diagnosed and treated promptly. Missing...
Whilst many dogs and occasional cats can be gradually trained to have their teeth brushed at home, this just isn’t possible for some pets! As a result, there are many pet dental care products available on the market, which may be able to help. Generally, the most...
Not all lumps can be lumped together! Have you noticed a new lump on your pet? If so, it’s best to get this checked fairly promptly by our team, as some lumps require further treatment for your pet’s health and comfort. What might my pet’s lump be? A new lump on your...
Does my dog need a vet visit for diarrhoea? If your dog suffers from diarrhoea, it can be distressing for both you and them, particularly if it’s severe or happens frequently. Animals with diarrhoea can be uncomfortable or have pain in their belly, become dehydrated...
“Sensitive stomach” = special diet? Does your pet have a 'sensitive stomach? That is, do they intermittently show signs of vomiting and/or diarrhoea? There are many potential causes of a sensitive stomach, ranging from food intolerances or allergies to inflammatory...
Animal lovers urged to help save endangered native animals Want to make a difference for our native animals too? With only one-quarter of known Australian threatened native species protected in conservation reserves, animal lovers in the community are being encouraged...
Why is my pet vomiting? Uh oh, your pet has vomited – what should you do? The first thing to do is to clean it up, obviously! Not only is this good hygiene, but it prevents your pet eating their vomit, which is generally best avoided. Additionally, if you can stomach...
Introducing babies and pets The prospect of introducing your new human baby to your original furry family member is exciting, but can also be a little daunting. Here are some tips for easing the transition for your pet, and keeping bub safe! Prepare your pet for your...
Older doggos You blinked, and suddenly your exuberant puppy has turned into a sweet old geriatric! But don’t worry - with some extra care and lifestyle adjustments, your beloved friend should be able to enjoy a lot more quality time with you yet. Joints It’s common...
Golden feline oldies It’s normal to feel a bit sad when your once-energetic feline is now a little old man or lady cat. But there are upsides – more quiet snuggles and less kitten mischief! To help keep your gorgeous old kitty fighting fit, check out our care tips....