Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease, which means it affects both animals and humans. It is caused by Leptospira bacteria found specifically in infected animal urine and animal tissues. It can cause a range of symptoms in both humans and animals.

Without treatment, Leptospirosis may cause kidney damage, liver failure, meningitis, respiratory distress and, in some cases, death. The…

Cane toads are highly toxic and pose a threat to our pets and wildlife in the Northern Territory. As the wet season begins, the number of toads around increases. Our pets often find it tempting to chase and catch cane toads as they hop across the yard.

When attacked or threatened, cane toads release a toxin, called bufotoxin, from special glands at the back of their head. The cane toad’s toxin…

With the COVID pandemic we are all very aware of the impact of infectious diseases. In dogs in the Northern Territory and Western Australia we are currently dealing with an epidemic (a sudden outbreak of disease in a particular area) called Ehrlichiosis. Most dog owners have heard of this disease now, but many are unclear on what it actually is and whether it is something that their dog is at risk…

Whether planned or unplanned, there are a few things to consider if you are thinking about breeding your dog.

Before any responsible breeding, it's important to consider the following:

• Complications with pregnancy and breeding can be costly. Emergency caesarean sections and complications with mother or puppies can add up to many thousands of dollars.
• Is…

For many of us, there will come a time when we must make the tough decision to let our pets go.

We all hope that our pets will alleviate us of having to make that choice by quietly passing away in their sleep. However, for most pets, that is uncommon, and we are left with the anguish of deciding when is the day. There is always the quandary- am I robbing them of time or am I prolonging…