When it rains, It pours!
Admin Team
For Loren, one of our Senior Vet Nurses some days are better then others. But she sure shows us why she loves her position here with YVV!
My journey began with Yass Valley Veterinary as a trainee vet nurse almost 6 years ago & I have no hesitation in saying that it’s the best & most emotional adventure I could have expected. I love what I do & there isn’t a week that goes by that I haven’t left work without gaining new experiences, new knowledge, strengths & never without feeling either joy or sadness through patients who have touched my heart. There’s no denying that in a mixed practice hospital like ours there is no 2 days ever the same, each day you turn up to work & you will never be certain where or you might end up before the day ends – that’s one of the things I love most about nursing.
Thinking about this always takes me back to a day earlier in my time at Yass Valley Veterinary. I was an eager trainee nurse & always keen to jump in to do anything, this particular winters day was warm & mild, I had been working away in the clinic all morning doing the usual endless cleaning, preparing & recovering patients from surgery, treating hospital patients, puppy vaccinations, farewelling 4 legged loved ones & negotiating my way around the occasional snappy & unhappy patient. After lunch bought all new excitement to me, one of the vets were preparing to head out on an
out call & they needed a nurse. I eagerly helped get all the equipment ready, packed the car & off we went - little did I know how much my naive mind would be expanded as I learned (literally) about the “ins & outs” of what’s involved fertility testing 30 bulls, I’m a lot more experience with it now but we don’t need to go into that right now… please!
We were running a little late by the time we finished, it was starting to get dark & a nasty looking storm was on the way, we were pleased to be finished just in time. We started our 45-minute drive back to the clinic & as we reached phone reception we found a few missed calls from the clinic, we called back to discover that there was a heifer having trouble calving close by (but still so far from the clinic). We briskly turned the vehicle around & off we went to find the property, we started driving through the paddocks in search of the cattle yards & owner when it started to absolutely pour down with rain & the thunder rumbled through the ground. I was filled with adrenaline to see my first calving, which was probably in my favour because it distracted me from the drenching rain. But! Within no time things had escalated quickly & I found myself seeing my first ever cow caesarean instead. There was very little time for any strategy plans or instructions from the vet as we were all too busy shivering & being saturated straight through to the skin, so I had to learn everything on the fly. I’m please to say that cow caesareans seem a lot more natural to me now then what I was feeling that day, I definitely got a whole new insight into the inside of a cow’s abdomen & when the vet asked you to hold EVERYTHING in while they stitch up, they really, really mean HOLD everything in! ...it took everything I physically had to hold "IT" in! Some might call me mad, but I recall thinking ‘how cool is this!’
I still remember my feeling of confusion when the calf was whisked out through the abdomen & draped over the cattle yard fence by its hind legs, I soon realised it was obviously to help drain all the fluid from his lungs. Once the stitch up process was well underway, I had the task of removing the calf from the fence to dry him down & get him moving - this was easier said than done! I might also add that it was still pouring with ice cold rain & It’s quite difficult to drag a soggy, lanky calf off the top rail of a cattle yard fence. Towels were in short supply, so I found myself reaching for anything remotely absorbent - overalls, our own dry, spare clothes & jackets, whatever I could find. As we were finishing up the rain & thunder was kind enough to ease off so mum & calf could recover in peace. With well-earned success upon us we left the property for our long, tired drive home, feeling saturated, frozen & hungry.
After the
grueling clean-up of all the gear & surgery packs back in the clinic it was finally home time. I treated myself to some cheeky McDonalds drive through on my way home followed by a hot shower & sleep so I could get up before the sun rises in the morning to do it all again - if that doesn’t sound like fun to you then that’s ok, we seem to be a different breed of human to some.
I’ve had many more exhausting shifts since then & although it leaves me feeling completely over done sometimes there’s always the significant better moments that get me through every time. Plus! I never forget the amazing people I get to work beside every day that make the hard times more bearable & the good times that much more amazing.
It’s all in a day’s work, we aren’t patting puppies & kittens all day!
It’s not the money we are here for, we each have our own unique reasons for doing what we do in this fast paced industry. But I can confidently say the one thing that we all feel in common is the appreciation that we can make a difference in an animals life & be an advocate for them when they can’t speak for themselves.
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.
