Clients
What if I can't afford the fees?
There is a consultation fee for every pet examined by a veterinarian. This is a set fee that can be obtained by calling Animal Emergency Service. The veterinarian will examine your pet and discuss fees for further medication, diagnostics or hospitalisation of your pet. There are an array of solutions available depending on your personal circumstance. It’s important you raise any financial or treatment concerns with the veterinarian so we can formulate a suitable plan. Once a treatment plan is agreed to, the veterinarian will provide and estimate of cost for your consent. A deposit will be required will all fees due for payment when your pet is discharged from our care. If you require financial assistance, please ask our staff to assist you with a VetPay or Gem Visa application prior to consenting treatment. This will give you peace of mind so you can focus on your pet’s recovery.
Why are other pets being consulted by a veterinarian before my pet?
Emergency arrivals are seen in order of priority based on the severity of illness or injury. Critical patients receive immediate treatment. Please alert our friendly staff if you’re concerned about your pet as they will be able to alleviate your concerns or adjust the veterinarians’ consultations.
Why can't you tell me what is wrong with my pet over the phone?
It is unfortunate companion animals can’t tell us what’s wrong or how sick they are. Veterinarians encounter many different symptoms that may account for any number of ailments. On some occasions the symptoms noticed by owners can lead to an incorrect diagnosis. Unless a veterinarian has seen your pet for the same condition recently, it is near impossible to give an emergency diagnosis on the phone. It’s best to have your pet physically examined to obtain the best advice.
Why does veterinary treatment cost so much?
We understand the angst involved with a visit to the emergency vet after hours. The fees for pet health care appear expensive, especially when compared to human health care. Australian human health care costs are subsidised by government funding. Unfortunately, veterinary care is not subsidised so the costs for diagnostic testing or specialist treatment can be a shock for pet owners. Emergency veterinary fees are determined by the cost of keeping highly skilled veterinarians, nurses and receptionists up all night to look after pets. There are also the costs involved in maintaining the hospital and equipment to deal with every possible emergency. These include surgery, laboratory testing, radiology, ultrasounds, endoscopy, oxygen therapy, intensive care, as well as medications and anti-venenes.
Ticks
What is tick paralysis?
Tick paralysis is a serious condition caused by the toxin of the paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus), predominantly found along the East Coast of Australia. These ticks attach to pets, becoming engorged as they feed on blood, and inject their toxin, which can lead to life-threatening symptoms in dogs and cats.
What is the prognosis for pets with tick paralysis?
Most animals with uncomplicated tick paralysis recover fully. However, complications like aspiration pneumonia, upper airway obstruction, respiratory muscle paralysis, reactions to the tick anti-serum, or corneal ulcers can occur, potentially leading to life-threatening situations.
Can I visit my pet while it is in the hospital?
Visits are generally not recommended as they can excite the pet, potentially causing regurgitation and clinical deterioration. It's best to follow your vet's advice regarding visits to ensure the best care and recovery for your pet.
How is tick paralysis initially treated?
Initial treatment involves sedation, possibly oxygen therapy or emergency intubation if breathing is compromised, and administration of tick anti-serum to neutralise the toxin. A full body clip may be recommended to find and remove any additional ticks, as multiple ticks can worsen the condition.
How long will my pet need to stay in the hospital?
The duration of hospital stay can vary widely depending on the severity of the paralysis, with uncomplicated cases typically being discharged within 1-5 days. However, the recovery time may be longer for more severe cases due to the persistence of bound toxin, which can take up to two weeks for the body to break down.
What are the costs of treatment for tick paralysis?
The cost can vary greatly depending on the level of care required. Your vet will provide an estimate for the optimal care of your pet and discuss any financial constraints to ensure the best possible outcome within your budget.
What are the signs of tick paralysis in pets?
The signs of tick paralysis may include lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting, retching or drooling due to difficulty swallowing, changes in vocal sounds, tongue protrusion, unsteady gait progressing to an inability to stand or walk, breathing difficulties, noisy breathing, and an inability to blink.
What does ongoing hospitalisation involve?
Ongoing care can vary but often includes 24-hour ICU monitoring, IV fluids for hydration and electrolyte balance, sedation, anti-nausea injections, anti-acid medications, IV antibiotics for secondary conditions like pneumonia, blood tests, eye lubrication, manual bladder expression, lung imaging, regular turning to prevent pressure sores, oxygen therapy, and possibly mechanical ventilation.
Vets
How can I request information about your emergency services to share with my clients?
You can request a range of free materials to help your clients prepare for after-hours emergencies by visiting
our vet resources hub We offer brochures on tick, toad, snake, and heat stroke emergencies, fridge magnets, window stickers, our Animal Emergency Service logo, and "In Case of Pet Emergency" folders. These resources make it easier for your clients to know who to contact when urgent care is needed.
How do I refer a patient to your emergency clinic?
Referring a patient to our emergency clinic is straightforward. Depending on the location, some of our hospitals are open 24/7, while others operate after hours. You can call us here to discuss the case with one of our emergency veterinarians, or advise your client to visit the nearest hospital. After treatment, we’ll send you a detailed report to ensure seamless continuity of care.
What happens after my patient is treated at your emergency clinic?
After we treat your patient, we ensure they are referred back to your practice without exception. We will also provide a detailed update on the diagnosis, treatment plan, and any recommendations as soon as possible after the pet is discharged, so you can continue their care seamlessly.
