FAQs
What services do you offer?
We offer a range of services including routine wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, surgery, emergency care, and more. Please visit our Services page for a full list.
What are your hours of operation?
Our clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 6:30pm, and Saturday from 9am to 12pm. We are closed on Sundays.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, we provide emergency services during our regular hours. We ask that if you are presenting an emergency that you call us (when possible) so we can make the necessary preparations. For after-hours emergencies, we can refer you to an emergency veterinary hospital.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling us on (03) 9596 7333.
What should I bring to my pet’s appointment?
Please bring your pet’s medical history, any medications they are currently taking, and a list of any concerns you have.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that you give us at least 12 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment to avoid a cancellation fee.
How much will my pet’s visit cost?
Costs can vary depending on the type of service or procedure. We can provide an estimate after discussing your pet’s needs. Please call us for more detailed information.
Do you offer payment plans or financial assistance?
We do not offer payment plans but we will work with you within your budget and we accept all forms of payment including cash, eftpos and credit cards.
Do you accept pet insurance?
Yes, we accept most pet insurance plans. Please check with your insurance provider for details on coverage and reimbursement.
What should I do if my pet is not feeling well?
If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, eating, or drinking habits, or if they show signs of illness, please contact us as soon as possible for an evaluation.
How can I prevent common health issues in my pet?
Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and preventive care like vaccinations and dental cleanings are key to keeping your pet healthy. We can provide personalised advice based on your pet’s needs.
Do you offer boarding or grooming services?
We offer boarding for cats in our brand new luxury cattery (see our cattery page on for photos and further details). We do not offer boarding or grooming services for dogs, however, we can recommend trusted facilities that provide these services.
Can I get advice on pet behaviour or training?
Yes, we offer consultations for behavioural issues and can provide guidance or refer you to a professional trainer if needed.
Where are you located?
Our clinic is located at 390 Bay Street, Brighton VIC 3186. For directions, please visit our Contact page.
How can I contact you if I have more questions?
You can reach us by phone on (03) 9596 7333, or via email info@brightonvet.com.au, or through our contact form on the website.
Do you offer specialized veterinary care?
We offer onsite ultrasonography including echocardiograms as well as advanced orthopaedic procedures. If you have further questions about these services you can give us a call on (03) 9596 7333 or book in for an appointment.
What types of pets do you see?
We primarily care for dogs and cats, but we also see some small animals, such as rabbits and guinea-pigs. Please call us to confirm if we can accommodate your pet.
Do you offer spaying/neutering services?
Yes, we offer spaying and neutering services. We’ll discuss the procedure and provide pre- and post-operative care instructions.
What are the core vaccines for dogs and cats?
For dogs, core vaccines include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. For cats, core vaccines include rabies, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and feline panleukopenia. We’ll tailor the vaccine schedule based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors.
How often should my pet receive dental cleanings?
Dental cleanings should be done annually or as recommended by your veterinarian, based on your pet’s dental health.
What kind of preventive medications does my pet need?
Depending on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors, we may recommend flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as regular deworming.
How can I prepare my pet for surgery?
Follow our pre-surgical instructions, which typically include fasting your pet for a specific period before the procedure. We’ll provide detailed instructions when you schedule the surgery.
What should I expect after my pet’s surgery?
Post-surgery, your pet may need to rest and recover. We will give you detailed aftercare instructions, including medication, activity restrictions, and signs to watch for.
Are there any risks associated with anaesthesia?
Anaesthesia, while generally safe, does carry some risks. We perform a thorough pre-anaesthetic evaluation and offer optional in-house pre-anaesthetic blood tests to minimize risks to ensure your pet’s safety.
Can you help with managing my pet’s chronic conditions?
Yes, we can help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or kidney disease with appropriate treatment plans and regular monitoring.
How do I administer medications to my pet?
We’ll provide instructions on how to administer medications and can demonstrate techniques if needed. There are also various forms of medications, including tablets, liquids, and topical treatments.
What should I do if I miss a dose of medication?
Contact us for guidance on what to do if you miss a dose. We can provide advice on how to get back on track with your pet’s medication schedule.
How can I address my pet’s behavioural issues?
We can offer initial guidance on behavioural issues and may refer you to a professional animal behaviourist or trainer for more specialised help.
What should I do if my pet has separation anxiety?
Addressing separation anxiety often involves behaviour modification techniques, environmental changes, and sometimes medication. We can help create a plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
How can I obtain my pet’s medical records?
You can request your pet’s medical records by contacting us directly. We can provide records to you or to another veterinary practice if needed.
Can I transfer my pet’s records from another vet?
How do I handle insurance claims for veterinary services?
We can assist with completing insurance claim forms. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for their specific requirements and process.
Are your staff members accredited?
Our veterinary team includes licensed veterinarians and certified veterinary nurses. We adhere to high standards of care and continuing education.
What measures do you take for infection control and sanitation?
We follow strict protocols for sanitation and infection control to ensure a safe and clean environment for your pet. This includes sterilizing equipment and maintaining a clean facility.
Can I tour the clinic before my pet’s appointment?
Yes, we offer tours of our facility. Please contact us to schedule a convenient time.
What should I feed my pet, and how much?
The type and amount of food your pet needs depends on several factors such as species, breed, age, weight, activity level, and any underlying health conditions. For more information see our blog “How Much Should I Feed My Pet?”
How often should my pet have a check-up?
The frequency of check-ups for your pet depends on factors like their age, species, and overall health. For more information read our “How Often Should My Pet Have A Check-Up?” blog.
Is my pet at a healthy weight?
To determine if your pet is at a healthy weight, you can check a few key indicators:
- Feel their ribs – you should be able to feel them without pushing too hard.
- Look at their waist – From above, your pet should have a visible waist.
- Profile view – From the side, your pet’s abdomen should slope up from the ribs towards the back legs.
- Many vets use a BCS ‘Body Condition Score’
For more information, visit our “Is My Pet A Healthy Weight?” blog.
What vaccinations does my pet need, and when?
The specific vaccinations your pet needs, and when, depend on their species, age, lifestyle, and regional health risks. You can find more information, by reading our “What vaccinations does my pet need, and when?” blog.
To learn the specifics about which vaccinations your pet needs, book an appointment with one of our vets.
How can I tell if my pet is in pain or sick?
Pets can’t verbally express when they’re in pain or sick, so it’s important to recognize behavioural and physical signs that may indicate a problem. For more tips on how to know if your pet is in distress, visit our “How can I tell if my pet is in pain or sick?” blog.
What causes diarrhoea in pets?
Diarrhoea in pets can be caused by a variety of factors, and identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some common causes:
- dietry issues
- infection
- toxins
- medications
- stress
- inflammation conditions
- intestinal parasites
- underlying health issues
- poor hygiene
To learn more about how these factors affect your animal, read our “What causes diarrhoea in pets?” blog or organise a consultation by calling (03) 9596 7333.
What to expect when euthanizing my pet?
Deciding to euthanize a pet is a deeply emotional and challenging decision. Here’s a general overview of what to expect during the process:
- Consultation with Your Veterinarian: Discuss your pet’s condition, quality of life, and options with your vet. They can provide guidance on whether euthanasia is the right choice and help you understand what to expect.
- Preparing for the Appointment: You may be given the option to say goodbye to your pet beforehand. Some owners find it comforting to spend a little extra time with their pet before the procedure.
To read more about the actual process of euthenasia, visit our “What to expect when euthanizing my pet?” blog. This blog goes into the process in more detail, and will give you more of an overview of what to expect.
How to get rid of bad breath in dogs?
Dealing with a dog’s smelly breath involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Here are some common strategies to help improve your dog’s breath:
– regular dental care
– changes in diet and nutrition
– regular vet check-ups
– hydration
and more… to learn more, visit our “How To Get Rid Of Bad Breath In Dogs?” blog.
What are the best tips for weight loss in cats?
Helping a cat achieve a healthy weight involves a combination of diet management, exercise, and monitoring. Here are some effective tips for weight loss in cats:
- Consult Your Veterinarian
- Controlled Diet
- Increase Activity
- Monitor Progress
- Limit Treats and Table Scraps
- Encourage Hydration
- Manage Stress and Environment
- Gradual Changes
- Regular Veterinary Check-Ups
Is incontinence in animals treatable?
Yes, incontinence in animals is often treatable, though the approach depends on the underlying cause. Incontinence can occur in both dogs and cats and can result from various conditions. To learn more visit our “Is Incontinence In Animals Treatable?” blog.