Newsletter Spring 2026

A big thank you to our clients and community!

We are incredibly grateful to have been presented as the Winner for Most Outstanding Pet Care as well as Business of the Year at the 2026 Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Local Business Awards in July.

As we celebrate providing 20 years of veterinary care for our local pets and their families this year, these awards are especially meaningful to us.

We would like to extend our thanks to our loyal clients for your continued trust in our services and for allowing us the privilege of caring for your much-loved pets.

Dr James Thompson & Dr Gretta Howard
Turramurra Veterinary Hospital Practice Owners

Proud to be family-owned and independent

 

Spring Pet Safety – What To Watch Out For

Spring means warmer days and more time outdoors – but it can also bring some seasonal hazards for our pets.
A few important things to watch for:

• Ticks – keep your pet’s tick prevention up to date and do a daily tick check of your pet.
• Bees – stings cause pain and swelling, and occasionally a serious allergic reaction.
• Grass seeds – can lodge in paws, ears, eyes and skin and migrate to other parts of the body.
• Allergens – skin allergies flare up at this time of year and present as excessive scratching (dogs) or overgrooming (cats), ear infections and paw licking.
• Snakes – become increasingly active as the weather warms.
• Warmer weather – be mindful of heat stress risk, hot surfaces and ensure access to plenty of fresh water.

Early action can make a big difference to your pet’s condition, so contact us to book a consultation if your pet needs veterinary care

 

Paralysis Tick – Prevention is Key

Spring brings warmer weather and increased tick activity, making this an important time to check that your pet’s paralysis tick prevention is up to date.
The Australian paralysis tick is endemic to our local area and can be fatal. At Turramurra Veterinary Hospital, we continue to see cases of tick paralysis in both dogs and cats — reinforcing just how important prevention is.

 

The best protection is prevention

Keep your pet on effective paralysis tick prevention all year round and talk to us about the most appropriate prevention for your pet.
We also recommend checking your pet thoroughly for ticks every day, particularly around the head, neck and ears, between the toes and in other less obvious areas.

Signs of tick paralysis can include a change in bark or meow, vomiting or retching, coughing, weakness or wobbliness in the legs, and difficulty breathing. If you find a tick or notice any concerning signs, please contact us immediately — tick paralysis can progress rapidly.

 

Early action can save lives

If a tick is removed, delayed signs of tick toxicity can continue as the neurotoxins bind to the neuroreceptors. Prompt veterinary assessment is therefore recommended to assess your pet’s risk and determine if tick anti-serum will be required.
For further information about paralysis tick prevention, visit our article on tick prevention.

 

Grain-free Pet Diets: Are they Safe to Feed my Pet?

Author: Dr Gretta Howard – Veterinarian

The trend of feeding grain-free diets gained popularity alongside the increase in gluten-free, paleo and ancestral diets in human nutrition. As a result, over the past 15 years or so there has been an increase in grain-free diets on the market available for pet owners to purchase. This has largely been marketed as ‘healthier’ for pets, advocating a reduced incidence of obesity, inflammation and adverse food reactions, which may contribute to skin or gastrointestinal issues.

But is this really the case? Let’s take a look.

Grain-free diets first became a popular diet with people looking to improve their overall health, but the majority of medical practitioners do not support eliminating whole grains from your diet. In fact, whole grains can be a rich source of nutrients, dietary fibre, anti-oxidants and phytochemicals, which may actually have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce the risk of chronic disease, not increase it!

Unfortunately, the media tends to over-hype certain food groups or ingredients depending on the latest trend, and in the past, gluten and dairy have been targeted as unhealthy. However, in recent times, especially with keto and paleo diets becoming more popular, grains have been overly blamed as a cause of health ailments.

Due to their increased popularity amongst humans, grain-free food entered the pet food market and became popular with pet owners, who assumed they were doing the right thing because it was misconceived as a healthier option for their pet.

Click the link to read more about grain-free pet diets.

 

The Right Fit: Choosing a Harness for Happy Walks with your Dog!

Author: Nicolette Javorsek – Pet behaviour Consultant

With so many harness options on the market, it can feel overwhelming to know which one is right for your dog.

Choosing a well-fitted harness can make a big difference to how comfortable and enjoyable walks are for both you and your dog. Harnesses can help distribute pressure across the body rather than concentrating it around the neck, while the type of equipment you choose can also influence how comfortably your dog moves on lead.

Fit, design, quality and durability are all important when choosing a harness for your dog’s individual needs and getting the sizing right is equally important. So, take accurate measurements before ordering online or have your dog professionally fitted where possible.

Look for a harness that is adjustable and allows natural movement of the shoulders and front legs without rubbing or restriction. This is particularly important for growing puppies. A harness with a front attachment point can also be useful alongside training when teaching loose lead walking.

The Blue-9 Balance Harness is highly adjustable, sits further back from the shoulders and can be used with a double-ended lead to allow loose lead walking alongside training. Another option is the True Love Harness range, which suits many dogs well, although it sits slightly further forward. For puppies, the Rogz Utility Control Harness is comfortable, adjustable as your puppy grows and includes a front attachment point to encourage early loose lead walking.

It’s also important to help your puppy or dog feel comfortable wearing their harness. Introduce it gradually and pair it with treats and other positive experiences, so putting the harness on predicts good things for your pup.

Remember, a harness is a training tool rather than a substitute for training. The goal is to aim for calm, relaxed walking and positive, low-stress experiences for both you and your dog.
Once you’ve found the right fit, it’s time to head out and enjoy your walks together!

Interested in dog training on site at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital?

Puppy Preschool: Suitable for puppies aged between 8-16 weeks

Canine Kindy: Suitable for puppies and adolescent dogs between 4-18 months

For further information visit our pages on on-site puppy training programs.

 

A Tribute to Sugar

Author: Libby Denyer – Veterinary Hospital Attendant Supervisor

Beautiful Sugar was nominated for Pet of the Month, but sadly, she has since passed away, making this tribute a celebration of a much-loved member of the Turramurra Veterinary Hospital family.

Sugar first visited Turramurra Veterinary Hospital in October 2018, seeing Dr Noni Marceau when she was just nine weeks old and weighed only 2kg. Over the years, she was cared for by many of our veterinarians, including Dr James, Dr Noni, and Dr Pip. Every vet that worked with her fell in love with her beautiful brown eyes and puppy dog face.

In 2024, Sugar underwent a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) on her right leg, followed by the same procedure on her left leg in 2025. These major orthopedic procedures, performed by a visiting specialist surgeon at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital, each required six weeks of confinement during recovery. Sugar faced both surgeries and the recovery process that followed with remarkable bravery and resilience, taking each challenge in her stride.

Naomi, from Customer Care, described her as the ‘cutest dog ever’ and fondly remembers hearing stories about her adorable snorts while sniffing and sleeping. Although this sweet girl could become nervous when coming into Turramurra Veterinary Hospital, with each visit Naomi saw her confidence grow, became increasingly more relaxed in the waiting room. Her quirky personality and outgoing nature made her well-known by the staff at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital. There was never a dull moment when Sugar was around.

As one of our long-standing patients, Sugar’s energy and zest for life brought joy and laughter to her family and all those who cared for her at our practice. This special girl’s resilience makes her a deserving recipient of our Pet of the Month. She will be missed and fondly remembered by the team at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital.

Naomi – Customer Care Team: “We were all deeply saddened to hear of Sugar’s passing. We will remember her sitting nervously but charmingly beside her mum, growing a little braver with each visit, and bringing smiles to our team with her adorable snorts as she explored reception. Sugar was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Sugar’s family during this difficult time.”

Dr Noni Marceau – Veterinarian: “My deepest condolences for the loss of your dearly loved Sugar. It is clear that she was living her best life with your family. We have been privileged to know her and be a part of her health care journey. She will be missed.”

 

Q & A: Tom – Veterinary Hospital Attendant

1. What do you enjoy most about working at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital?

I really enjoy seeing all the different types of pets that come into the practice as they light up my day. My role requires me to be on my feet all day, which is great as I get to see the entire practice and how it all operates and comes together.  Working with a lot of great people also makes it a terrific working environment.

 

2. What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?

I really enjoy watching and reading about all different types of sport such as rugby league, motocross, tennis, boxing and UFC. I also enjoy playing soccer, riding dirt bikes and 4WD, and love spending time with friends and family.

 

3. What is your favourite animal and why?

My favourite is Millie, our Toy Cavoodle, who is always happy to see any family member once they arrive home. She loves playing with her toy balls, enjoys her daily walks and cuddles. Millie is a big part of the family, and we would be lost without her.

Aside from Millie, my favourite animal would have to be the Kodiak Brown Bear. Their large size, amazing sense of smell and the fact that they hibernate in winter have always fascinated me.

 

 

 

Avian Influenza Awareness

Author: Dr Gretta Howard – Veterinarian

Background

H5 bird flu (the H5N1 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza [HPAI]) has caused widespread disease and significant deaths in wild birds and poultry around the world since 2020, as well as infection in some mammal species.
Late last year, H5N1 bird flu was detected in several species on Heard Island, part of Australia’s remote sub-Antarctic territory. The outbreak had a significant impact on wildlife, with an estimated 13,000 southern elephant seal pups dying.
H5 bird flu has since reached mainland Australia. Since the first confirmed detection in a wild migratory seabird in June 2026, the virus has been detected in wild birds across several states, including NSW, as well as in some wild mammals. Australian authorities continue to monitor and respond to its spread.

The spread of H5 bird flu is of particular concern because of its potential impact on Australia’s native birds and other wildlife. While H5 bird flu in wildlife is not considered technically feasible to eradicate following evidence of local transmission, national surveillance and response measures are in place to help reduce its impact. There have been no detections in Australian poultry or agricultural production systems to date.

 

What does this mean for people and pets?

The current risk of H5 bird flu to people in Australia is considered low. However, people and their pets should avoid contact with sick or dead birds and other wildlife.
If you find sick or dead birds:

• Do not touch or handle them yourself.
• Keep dogs, cats and other pets away from them.
• If safe to do so, take photos, note the location and report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Annual seasonal influenza vaccination is also recommended for people. While the seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against bird flu, vaccination helps reduce the chance of becoming infected with seasonal influenza and bird flu at the same time.

Stay informed:
For the latest information about H5 bird flu in Australia, including how to protect yourself, your pets and our wildlife, visit the Australian Government website on bird flu.

 

Stop the Scratching: A New Way to Control Itchy Dog Skin!

Author: Dr Amy Howe – Veterinarian

Is your dog constantly scratching, licking their paws, chewing at their skin or suffering from recurring ear infections?

Allergic skin disease is one of the most common conditions we see in dogs, and it can be incredibly frustrating for both pets and their owners.
The good news is that a new treatment option, Zenrelia, is now available in Australia, offering another way to manage allergic skin disease and help our itchy patients feel more comfortable.

 

What is Zenrelia?

Zenrelia contains the active ingredient ilunocitinib and is a once-daily oral tablet designed to reduce itching and improve symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies). It belongs to a class of medications called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which work by blocking certain signals involved in inflammation and itching.

By interrupting the frustrating itch-scratch cycle, Zenrelia can help reduce scratching, licking and skin irritation, allowing damaged skin time to heal and preventing further self-trauma.

 

What are the benefits?

One of Zenrelia’s main advantages is its convenient once-daily dosing from the beginning of treatment. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Zenrelia can provide effective relief from itching and improve the skin’s condition, making it another useful option for dogs requiring ongoing skin allergy management. For dogs with chronic allergies, controlling itching can make a significant difference to their comfort, sleep and overall quality of life.

 

Is Zenrelia suitable for every dog?

Like all medications, Zenrelia isn’t suitable for every patient. It affects certain immune system pathways, so your veterinarian will consider your dog’s age, concurrent health conditions, current medications and previous history before prescribing this medication.
With longer term use, more frequent health checks and, in some cases, blood testing to monitor white blood cell levels (haematology) are also recommended whilst taking this medication.

 

Managing allergies is about more than medication

Although Zenrelia can provide effective itch relief, it doesn’t cure the underlying allergy. Successful long-term management is usually best achieved with a multi-modal approach that can also include medicated shampoos, topical ointments/lotions, dietary modification and treatment of secondary skin or ear infections with appropriate antimicrobials.

If your dog is struggling with itchy skin, book a veterinary dermatology consultation to review their allergy management plan. We’re here to help keep your dog comfortable, happy and itch-free!

 

 

Ask the Vet!

1). My pet seems to be itching more since spring started. Could it be seasonal allergies?

Author: Dr Imogen Tomlin-Game – Veterinarian

Seasonal allergies are very common, especially in Poodle crosses, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and French Bulldogs, but can affect any breed of dog. If you notice your pet tends to get itchy, pink skin, skin rashes or skin infections in warmer weather, there may well be a seasonal allergy at play. Many dogs that do not require medication over winter, do require it in the spring and summer. Allergens such as plant pollens and grass tend to be more of a problem at this time of the year.

Itchy ears and excessive licking of feet are also a very common symptoms of allergies. There are many very effective medications available to control allergic itchiness that we can offer, including injections and tablets. It is important to come in for a vet consultation when you notice the increased itch, as we will rule out any skin or ear infections that need to be addressed. These often flare up as a result of the inflamed itchy skin and prevent other anti-itch medications from working as well as they should. Once infections are cleared, your vet will determine if your pet requires any ongoing maintenance medication to prevent flare-ups from coming back again.

 

2). Are tick preventative products enough to protect my pet from paralysis ticks, or are there other things I should be doing?

Author: Dr Amy Howe – Veterinarian

Paralysis ticks pose a serious and potentially life-threatening risk to our pets, particularly during the warmer months. While regular tick prevention is essential, no tick prevention product is 100% effective, so a multi-layered approach is the best way to keep your pet safe.

Daily, thorough tick searches are crucial, even if your pet is up to date with their preventative treatment. Run your fingertips carefully over your pet’s entire body, paying particular attention to the head, ears, neck, under the collar, armpits, groin and between the toes. Remember, ticks can be tiny and easily missed!

For pets living in or regularly visiting high risk tick areas, we recommend considering two complementary forms of tick prevention, such as an oral preventative combined with a Seresto tick collar, which repels ticks to prevent tick attachment.

It’s also important to recognise the early signs of tick paralysis, including changes in bark or meow, wobbly back legs, vomiting, weakness or difficulty breathing.

If you suspect tick paralysis, seek veterinary attention immediately. Don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Remember, the best protection combines effective preventatives, daily tick searches and early recognition of tick toxicity!

 

3). What are some things I can do at home to help keep my pet’s teeth and gums healthy?

Author: Dr Kirsty Hart – Veterinarian

One of the most important things you can do as a pet owner is keeping your pet’s mouth healthy. Dental problems can be painful for your pet, and can impact the whole body, not just the mouth.
By combining consistent dental care at home with an annual health check at the vet, you can make sure you are preventing dental problems and protecting your beloved pet’s overall well-being.

• Daily tooth-brushing: This is the gold-standard for preventing plaque build-up, just like in people. Use a soft-bristled brush and a pet-safe toothpaste and get to work! Gentle circular brushing over the outer surface of the teeth helps prevent tartar build-up and keeps the gums healthy. If this is your first time, take it slow and make it positive with lots of praise and rewards.
• Veterinary dental diets: Feeding veterinary dental diets, such as Hill’s T/D or Royal Canin Dental, is a proven way to help reduce tartar buildup. The biscuits are large and crunchy, encouraging your pet to chew, and their structure acts a bit like a toothbrush, cleaning the teeth as they crunch!
• VOHC-approved chews: With so many dental chews available, look out for the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal that tells you they are vet-approved and scientifically tested. Turramurra Veterinary Hospital stocks Greenies, which are popular with pets.
• Water additives: Water additives, such as Oxyfresh, help reduce bacteria and improve gum health when used alongside brushing and dental diets.

Professional vet care: Home care is crucial for slowing plaque build-up, but nothing fully prevents tartar accumulation under the gumline. A regular ultrasonic dental scale and polish under anaesthesia may be recommended to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

 

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Thank you for reading our E-news – we would love to hear from you! You are welcome to send through a question for our Ask the Vet! section by replying directly to this email.

We really appreciate receiving feedback from our clients, so feel free to send us a message by emailing manager@turramurravet.com.au as we always strive to improve our service.

Best wishes,

Dr James Thompson & Dr Gretta Howard
Turramurra Veterinary Hospital Practice Owners
Proud to be family-owned and independent

Dr Gretta, Dr James and the Turramurra Veterinary Hospital team at this year’s Bendigo Bank Community Pitch Event. 

 

 

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Contact Us:
Turramurra Veterinary Hospital
2 Princes St (cnr Bannockburn Rd)
Turramurra 2074
www.turramurravet.com.au
Ph (02) 9988-0198