Making A Difference!
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Dr Alex has treated her fair share of Patients since joining the Team at YVV in 2016, but these are some of her more memorable ones. From Bucking Bulls to Little puppies, SHE DOES IT ALL!! And isn't afraid of a "Little" Poop!
I started as a fresh-faced graduate veterinarian with Yass Valley Veterinary in 2016! It’s a bit surreal that I’m already reaching my fourth year with the team. I feel so at home in the Yass Valley because of the variable & always interesting case load, strong community values & clients who allow me the opportunity to assist in keeping their beloved animals healthy & happy.
One of the things I absolutely love is that our team always has a can-do attitude. It was a very hot, dry summer day last year when my nurse Brodie and I were scheduled for pregnancy testing 150 cows on a farm about 30 minutes out of town. When we arrived to, lets say a very basic yard, I then noticed that there were far more than 150 cows in the yards & paddocks behind. I asked the farmer how many we were checking for pregnancy, he then replied with 450!
This was one the first times that Brodie had been with me & experienced the joy of dust, heat & a ridiculous amount of cow poo. We rang the clinic to let them know we’d be a fair while longer & we got stuck in.
On this day, the farmer had several things he had to do including walking cows back to their paddocks, so it was largely a girl-power effort. Brodie was constantly jumping over yard rails to run a few more cows into the forcing yard, pushing them down the race to me, then changing draft gates to keep the empty (not pregnant) cows separate from the ones who were pregnant.
By the end of the day we were EXHAUSTED! But proud of what we’d achieved with mostly just the two of us. Since this day the yards have been vastly improved & far more efficient for such a big job, which is always appreciated. I’ve also learnt to ask who will be there to help on the day.
It wasn’t long after this day that the clinic had received a phone call for a Bucking Bull who had been drooling & very lethargic. I went out to this farm to examine the bull, named Stealth who had evidently hurt himself in a paddock accident & fractured his jaw. Without hesitation, his owner & contractor advised me to do whatever was necessary to fix Stealth.
I then called on the back up of my ever-supportive boss, Stuart. We then wired up his jaw so that it was able to heal. Since the 8 weeks of nursing & pain management by his owner, he has gone on to win a national title & perform at an elite level. He’s one to watch & a real testament to the commitment of his owner.
I’ll always have a real soft spot for cattle but it’s not just large animal stories that I really get a kick out of, even if it’s some un-godly hour in the morning, which is exactly what happened when I received a 4am phone call for a German Shepherd who had been in active labour for far too long & no puppies had been passed.
We all came into the clinic & I examined her. I then ultra-sounded the puppies & determined by their low heart rate that they were in foetal distress & needed to be removed via caesarean. After which I made the call to wake up one of wonderful nurses to help me. That very “EARLY” morning, we were privileged to deliver 9 healthy puppies. A few of them went to local homes & from time to time, I see them out on a walk or in the clinic for routine health visits.
I am finding now that I’ve been able to follow a few long-term cases through & really feel that I am making a positive, genuine difference to a family. I love being a part of the Yass Valley Veterinary team & wouldn’t change it.
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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.
