Oh yes, it's still all happening at the Beaconsfield Veterinary Centre with babies, 40^th birthdays and Shanya's engagement party.

The party was held at Shanya's home on 19^th September. There was lots of yummy food and plenty to drink. Unfortunately, I had a previous engagement to attend with my buddy Eve (Khaled's master), so I missed all the fun!

I heard it was a fantastic night, with Patric a little tongue tied when it came to speeches needing to take a seat to have a breather and Josh's vodka jelly shots went down a treat! Everyone at the clinic would like to wish them all the happiness together.

We all are now looking forward to the next event whatever that might be?

Movember (the month formerly known as November) is a moustache growing charity event held each year during November. The event raises funds and awareness for men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression.

The boys here at the clinic are participating in this worthy cause. Steve, Khaled and Josh will be known as the ‘BVC Boys' and will all be growing some form of a Mo over the month (some of which will need the entire month). If you would like to donate to this great cause please drop in or contact the clinic.

Remember!

November 13^th is Black Friday and the clinic is offering 10% off vaccinations for black pets, including any fashion ideas to turn them black for the day.

Christmas is nearly upon us once again and at the clinic we have organised a professional pet photographer to take your pet's adorable Christmas portrait.

The sittings are booked and held at the clinic and dates will be: Friday 27th and Saturday 28th November.

The sitting and one 5" x 7" photo is $20.00, viewing and purchases of extra photos can also be arranged on the day. Please phone the clinic on 9769 8777 to make a time - but be fast as bookings fill quickly!

When we see your pet for a vaccination there is much more going on than meets the eye. A more accurate description is a health check and it is one of the most important ways to care for your pet.

History from you helps us paint a picture of the health of your companion. Changes in appetite, thirst, behaviour or energy levels should be mentioned. 

Your pet will be given the once over from nose to toes. We will feel for strange lumps, listen to the heart and check for dental disease. A physical exam won't reveal everything so we may recommend further blood and urine tests.

We'll make sure your pet is covered for preventative diseases including worms, heartworm and fleas. We will also decide the most suitable vaccination regime for your pet. There are some diseases that require yearly boosters to maintain immunity so it is important that this check takes place to keep your pet healthy.  

Remember: if you are planning to board your pet over Christmas, arrange it now. Ensure vaccinations are up to date well in advance. You don't want your pet to be turned away the day you are set to leave on the plane. 

If you are visiting the east coast of Victoria with your pet this summer, there is sure to be plenty of exploring. This is also the perfect time for your pet to come into contact with the paralysis tick. 

If a paralysis tick manages to attach and goes undetected, it can be fatal. It is important to start tick prevention up to 4 weeks before you go, so ask us for the best product now. While on holiday, you should also check your pet for ticks. Follow these tips:

• Check from head to tail
• Check daily - use your fingers to explore your pet's fur
• Use a comb for longer coats- go against the fur, followed by your hands
• Feel for any lumps and stop and inspect if you discover one
• The head, chest, the entire ear and in between the toes should all be scrutinised

If you find a tick, seek vet advice immediately - the entire tick must be removed.

Remember, even if you are not taking your pet on holiday with you be aware that the ticks can hitchhike their way home in your clothes or camping gear.

Easy to apply, with just a few drops to your dog's coat, Advantix acts as a barrier to repel the paralysis tick. In addition to killing fleas, it is proven to repel paralysis ticks and 100% of these ticks will then die. Go to www.advantix.com.au for more information and to www.fleamemorialday.com.au to celebrate your pet being flea free.

Most people know that when it comes to dogs, the ideal companion is friendly and affectionate. What about the differences between men and women when it comes to choosing a pooch?

Recent research reveals that women prefer male dogs that are calm and compliant. They are more willing to spend time grooming their pet. Men on the other hand are more likely to choose a female dog that is energetic, faithful and protective.  Men also preferred larger and purebred dogs that are physically impressive.

It is thought that the findings may help in selecting the correct pet and will hopefully aid in reducing the number of dogs that end up in shelters. Who knows, it may also help prevent relationship squabbles!

Click here to read more about the research.

Rocket the Labrador was in trouble. His sense of smell had got the better of him and he had emptied the rubbish bin, eating all the left overs from the night before - including the take away Chinese. 

After an entire night of vomiting and diarrhoea it was time for a visit to the vet. Rocket was admitted to hospital and was closely monitored. Thankfully, after nothing to eat and resting his stomach for 24 hours, Rocket started to improve.

Rocket was a lucky dog as garbage intoxication can be very dangerous. There are many potential hazards in the rubbish bin. These are just a few:

• Bacteria laden meat or dairy products; salmonella poisoning can occur
• Cooked bones; these splinter and can cause an obstruction
• Left over food containing chocolate, onions, garlic or nuts; all poisonous to dogs
• Wrappers, that were used to cover food; can be ingested and cause an obstruction
• Used sanitary items; these are attractive to pets and can cause an obstruction if ingested

Rocket went home on a bland diet to allow his stomach upset to settle and the rubbish bin is no longer in his reach. 

Hill's has a range of Prescription Diets that are clinically proven to address the most important health concerns of your pet. For more information please call the Hill's HelpLine on 1800 800 733.

We want as many pet owners to receive our email newsletter as possible. If we can get more people reading our tips and advice, we'll end up with healthier pets. In order to sign up more people, we're asking you to refer this to your family, friends and workmates - anyone who would enjoy it.

You may find yourself at the movies as we have free Village movie passes to give away www.villagecinemas.com.au

To refer a friend, click on the button below. Your friend will be sent an email inviting them to join and they can look at an example of the newsletter. If they choose not to join, they can simply ignore the email and will not be signed up.