Where you have a Wit, you have a way!
Admin Team
How sweet it is to be loved by you.... Wit loves visiting us here at YVV and Dr Fiona and many other staff members have a wonderful bond with this sweet pooch.
Over the last 8 years, I have seen many memorable cases. I have seen lots of interesting cases. I have seen lots of weird cases. But I have never seen a case of a dog with such unshakable happiness and perseverance as Wit (and the dedication of his owner!).
Wit is a lovely two-and-a-half-year-old spaniel who presented to us last January for multiple grass seed abscesses under his armpits and belly. Despite removal of as many grass seeds as we could find and lots of nice medication, we suspect the grass seeds introduced an unusual bacteria under Wit’s skin, and Wit developed a significant infection throughout the skin to his belly. Unfortunately, it became necessary for him to be hospitalised and the compromised skin surgically removed. We were horrified to find that the infection had spread from the start of his chest to between his hind legs, and almost half way up the sides of his body. With plastic surgery techniques we were able to close as much of the open wound as possible but there was still a large area of open tissue that required bandaging while the skin grew back.
Now you would assume that if you had that proportion of your body healing, you’d feel a bit despondent. Not wanting to move that much. Curl up and watch Netflix. Not Wit! Wit was a little trooper who perked up once the devitalised tissue was removed, and ate his critical care diet with gusto. He was interested in going for walks outside and having cuddles with the staff. He was discharged a few days after his surgery for some TLC at home. This was the beginning of a long road to recovery for Wit and his owner.
Wit came in every four days for two months for intensive bandage changes. I’d be pretty sick of my doctor if I had to seem them that often. Not Wit! Wit pulled to get into the building and say hi to all his friends. He pulled to get out the back so we could change his bandage. He stood nicely on the treatment table for his bandage changes, and licked us as we itched his growing skin for him.
Wit got to have all the colours of bandage as his wounds healed and it became a joke as to what colour he’d be fashioning this week. He progressed to having a lovely string vest that covered his body from his neck to his hind legs to secure the manuka honey dressings on without rubbing on his legs. He got leg warmer style socks on his hind legs so he wouldn’t scratch the itchy growing tissue.
Wit’s final check for his wounds took place at the beginning of May, after four months and 17 visits to the vet. He has fully healed, with only mild tightness to one small area of skin – Wit doesn’t seem to notice at all.
Wit loves coming in for routine appointments now because everyone greets him by name and pats him as he goes by. I love seeing how happy he is with us and the amazing journey he has had with us – it makes all the blood, sweat and tears of our job worthwhile.
And really, it just proves, you can’t keep a good Wit down!
Spring brings longer days and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your pet. While the warmer weather is exciting, it also brings seasonal hazards that can put curious dogs and cats at risk. Across New South Wales, spring means increased snake activity, parasites, blooming plants and seasonal allergens. Knowing what to look out for can help keep your pet safe. At Yass Valley Veterinary , we’re passionate about preventative care and helping pets stay healthy all year round. Why Spring Can Be Risky for Pets Warmer weather encourages pets to spend more time outdoors, but it also creates ideal conditions for seasonal hazards. As temperatures rise, snakes become more active, parasites increase, and gardens fill with plants and products that may be harmful to pets. Even pollen and grasses can trigger allergies in some animals. Protecting your pet during spring can help: Reduce the risk of snake bites Prevent parasite infestations Avoid accidental poisoning Keep skin and ears healthy Enjoy safer outdoor adventures Common Backyard Hazards to Watch For Many spring hazards are easy to overlook until they become a problem. Common risks include: Snakes in long grass, bushland and gardens Ticks, fleas and worms Seasonal allergies caused by pollen and grasses Toxic plants, fertilisers, herbicides and snail baits Grass seeds and other hazards hidden in long grass If you notice your pet becoming unwell after spending time outdoors, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. How to Keep Your Pet Safe This Spring Simple preventative measures can significantly reduce your pet’s risk. Some easy ways to protect your pet include: Keep parasite prevention up to date. Avoid long grass where snakes may be hiding. Check your pet after walks for ticks, grass seeds or injuries. Keep toxic plants and garden chemicals out of reach. Supervise pets while they’re exploring the backyard. Contact your veterinarian if your pet appears unwell. Even small changes can make a big difference to your pet’s health and safety. When to Seek Veterinary Care Prompt treatment is essential if your pet has been exposed to a seasonal hazard. Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet: May have been bitten by a snake Has eaten a toxic plant or garden chemical Shows signs of weakness or collapse Has difficulty breathing Vomits repeatedly Develops severe swelling or allergic reactions Early treatment often leads to the best possible outcome. Prevention is the Best Protection Many spring emergencies can be prevented with regular health checks and year-round preventative care. During your pet’s annual examination, your veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate parasite prevention, discuss seasonal risks in your area and help you prepare for a safe spring. A little preparation now can help keep your pet happy and healthy throughout the season. FAQs: Hidden Dangers in Your Backyard This Spring Can pets get seasonal allergies? Yes. Pollen and grasses commonly cause itchy skin, ear infections and irritated paws in both dogs and cats. What should I do if I suspect a snake bite? Keep your pet calm and seek emergency veterinary attention immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to develop. How often should I use parasite prevention? Follow your veterinarian’s recommendation based on your pet’s lifestyle and the parasites common in your local area. Are garden products dangerous for pets? Yes. Fertilisers, herbicides and snail baits can all be toxic if ingested, so they should always be stored safely and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. How can I make my backyard safer this spring? Keep grass short, remove toxic plants where possible, maintain parasite prevention, supervise outdoor play and regularly check your pet after spending time outside. Keep Your Pet Safe This Spring with East Doncaster Vet Hospital Spring is one of the best times of year to get outdoors with your pet, but it’s also important to stay aware of the seasonal hazards that come with warmer weather. Whether you need advice on parasite prevention, seasonal allergies or spring safety, our experienced veterinary team is here to help. Contact Yass Valley Veterinary today to book a health check and help your pet enjoy a safe and healthy spring.
Learn how to keep your dog or cat's teeth healthy with simple dental care tips and preventative advice.
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