Long lost family.
Admin Team
We all love a happy ending and for one special Puss and his owners, Louise and the team were able to make this come true!
As a receptionist in a mixed practice my day is never the same from one day to the next. There is always something interesting happening. From advice to new puppies and kittens owners (yes I do love a cuddle when I get a chance), emergencies as they come in or call through, pet owners needing advice and dealing with the ever evolving schedule of the day. However my favorite thing is seeing all the pets and their families. Watching them all grow and finding out what it the latest thing going on in their lives.
Once particularly memorable day we had a full schedule of surgeries, consults and a last minute emergency horse call . All equipment had been gathered and packed in the vet car while I was confirming the directions. The vet and vet nurse left for the treatment of the horse. In the midst of the chaos a gentleman had come in and waited patiently to explain that he had a cat in the car he would like us to look at.
He and his family had been staying in a campground in Bowning and they had picked up a cat that kept hanging around. Although it looked very matted and a little thin, it did not appear to be a stray. The family was due to head home and the girls didn’t want to leave the cat out there. I followed the man out to the car with the microchip scanner to see a rather matted but cuddled cat in the laps of 2 girls in the back of the car. I was able to do a quick scan for a microchip and luckily it came up.
I returned to the computer and began to search the microchip details in our system. We didn’t get a result in our system but had found a result in the national microchip register.
I was able to speak to one of the contacts listed under the microchip. “Hello this is Louise, I’m calling from the Yass Valley Veterinary I have Coco here with us. He has been brought in to be scanned. Is this your cat?” The owner was silent. “I’m sorry what? Has fluffy been brought in there? You found the body?” The owner was getting teary over the phone. “No, he is alive, a little thin and a few matts, he was found in Bowning.” “Are you sure?? He has been missing for 3 months! He’s alive?”. I replied “Yes, your details having been found on the chip I had scanned”. A very emotional owner “I can’t believe this… we gave up hope… wait, where are you? We live in Canberra, how did he get there…my kids will be so happy, I’m leaving work now…”
The camping family said their goodbyes and one of our vets gave Coco a quick check over for any injuries.
The very happy owner called on the way again to get directions and couldn’t believe he was alive and uninjured.
We can only credit this happy ending to the fact that this cat was micro-chipped at their local vet clinic and it shows just how important this actually is.
I have been working in Yass Valley Veterinary now for almost 3 years. I can honestly say it is a place I love to work at. The team is one of the best bunch of people I have worked with and I enjoy working for a local business that is part of the community.
Welcoming a new furry family member is an exciting time for the whole family. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or another small companion, January is the perfect time to focus on establishing routines and ensuring your pet’s health and happiness. If you’re a new pet owner, these tips will help you create a loving and safe environment for your newest family member. Schedule a Veterinary Check-Up Even if your new pet has received vaccinations, a full veterinary check-up is essential. Our team can: · Confirm vaccinations and schedule future ones · Conduct health screenings for common conditions · Provide advice on diet, exercise, and preventive care Booking a vet visit early ensures your pet starts the year healthy and prevents potential health issues down the line. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space New pets need time to adjust to their new home. Set up a quiet, cozy area where your pet can feel safe. Include: · A soft bed or crate · Toys and chew items · Food and water bowls in an accessible location This dedicated space helps your pet settle in and reduces anxiety during the first few weeks. Establish a Consistent Routine Pets thrive on routine. Try to: · Feed at the same times each day · Schedule regular walks or play sessions · Set consistent potty-training schedules for puppies or kittens A consistent routine helps your pet feel secure and promotes good behaviour. Invest in Proper Nutrition High-quality, species-appropriate food is vital for your pet’s growth and wellbeing. Consult your vet about: · The right type of food for age, breed, and size · Portion sizes and feeding frequency · Supplements or special dietary needs, if necessary Proper nutrition sets the foundation for a long and healthy life. Socialise and Train Early Early socialisation is key to raising a well-adjusted pet. Introduce your pet gradually to: · Other people and pets · Different environments, sounds, and experiences Training, even basic commands, should start early. Positive reinforcement techniques work best for teaching good habits. Grooming and Hygiene Regular grooming keeps your pet comfortable and healthy. Depending on your pet, you may need to: · Brush their coat regularly · Trim nails and clean ears · Bathe when necessary Our friendly team can advise on a grooming routine suited to your pet’s breed and needs. Monitor Health and Behaviour New pets may hide signs of stress or illness. Keep an eye out for: · Changes in appetite or water intake · Lethargy or unusual behaviour · Signs of discomfort or pain Early detection of health issues allows for prompt treatment and prevents complications. Enjoy this exciting time! Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. By scheduling veterinary visits, establishing routines, providing proper nutrition, and offering love and attention, you’ll set your new pet up for a healthy, happy life. Remember, every pet is unique, so consulting your veterinarian regularly ensures your furry friend thrives in the year ahead. If you’ve recently welcomed a new pet into your home, book a check-up with our veterinary team today! We’re here to provide expert advice, vaccinations, and care to help your furry family member start the year off right.
If your pet has an emergency during the Christmas holidays, stay calm and contact your nearest emergency vet. Learn key first aid and safety tips from Yass Valley Veterinary.
Trips to the vet are essential for your pet’s health, but for many dogs and cats, they can also be stressful. Anxiety at the vet is common, from strange smells and new people to past experiences; it’s no surprise pets sometimes feel nervous. At Yass Valley Veterinary , we’re dedicated to making vet visits calmer, safer, and more positive for both pets and their owners. Book a Low-Stress Appointment Why Pets Get Anxious at the Vet If your dog is scared of the vet or your cat gets stressed in their carrier, you’re not alone. Common reasons pets feel anxious at the vet include: New sights, smells, and sounds Previous negative or painful experiences Separation from their owner during treatment Other animals in the waiting room Understanding these triggers is the first step to helping your pet feel safe. Signs of Pet Anxiety at the Vet Both dogs and cats show stress in different ways. Keep an eye out for these behaviours: Dogs: panting, pacing, whining, shaking, excessive drooling, tucked tail Cats: hiding, vocalising, flattened ears, refusing to leave the carrier, excessive grooming If your pet shows these signs, mention it to your vet so we can adjust our approach. Tips to Calm Your Pet Before a Vet Visit There are simple steps you can take at home to reduce your pet’s anxiety before coming to the vet: Get the carrier ready early: leave it out at home with blankets, toys, and treats. Practice car trips: short rides help dogs and cats feel more comfortable on the way. Stay calm yourself: pets pick up on their owner’s stress. Use calming products: pheromone sprays, treats, or supplements may help (ask us for recommendations). Reward positive behaviour: treats and praise go a long way in reinforcing calmness. Tip: Ask us about adding a wellness check during your appointment so your pet gets used to positive visits, not just when they’re unwell. How We Make Vet Visits Stress-Free At Yass Valley Veterinary , we use gentle, pet-friendly approaches to create a low-stress vet experience: · Calm, reassuring handling techniques · Treats and positive reinforcement during exams · Time to let your pet settle before starting procedures · Cat-friendly spaces and quiet waiting areas where possible For pets with severe anxiety, we may recommend pre-visit medication to make the trip less stressful. FAQs About Pet Anxiety at the Vet 1. How can I calm my dog before a vet visit? Take your dog for a walk, bring favourite treats or toys, and stay calm yourself. Ask us about safe calming supplements or medication if needed. 2. What’s the best way to transport a nervous cat? Use a sturdy carrier lined with familiar bedding. Covering the carrier with a light towel can help reduce visual stress. Leave the carrier out at home so it feels familiar, not just a “vet box. 3. Should I give my pet medication before a vet visit? Only under vet advice. We may prescribe safe, short-term anxiety medication if your pet struggles with extreme stress. 4. Can I stay with my pet during their exam? In most cases, yes. Many pets are more relaxed when their owner stays nearby. 5. What if my pet is too stressed for the appointment? We can reschedule, adjust handling, or recommend calming aids. Our team’s priority is always your pet’s comfort and safety. Book a Stress-Free Vet Visit in Yass & Murrumbateman At Yass Valley Veterinary , we know that every pet is different. That’s why we tailor our approach to your pet’s needs, whether it’s an anxious dog or a nervous cat. Our goal is to make vet visits as calm and positive as possible. 📞 Call us on 02 6226 4444 or Book Now online to schedule a gentle, stress-free appointment.
