General News

One of the first faces you meet upon entering the Greensborough Veterinary Hospital is Tracey Collins, our receptionist.

Tracey joined our team in August 2010.  She came to us with a wealth of experience in office and reception management.  We put this ability to the test during our busy periods.  We find that Tracey has the skills to ensure our waiting area is running smoothly by ensuring consultations are on time, directing phone calls and keeping all staff up to date with client communications, all done politely with her quiet demeanour.  Through staff training Tracey has a sound knowledge on heartworm and flea prevention along with dietary/food advice. Tracey is responsible for the maintenance of our professional food range and keeping up to date with the availability of prescription diets. 

We would like to introduce you to Ernie, who belongs to Jill Whincup, a long-time loyal client at Greensborough.

Ernie is a pedigree Keeshond who comes from a long line of top winning Keeshonden, not only from Australia but from around the world. From his first day in the show ring Ernie was destined to be a great success.  He showed the poise and charm, along with great genetics to stand out amongst his peers in the judging ring.

Ernie has a pedigree name that he must use to enter dog shows, Australian Grand Champion Hunkeedori Mister Party Man, but answers to Ernie on any day. His pedigree name and microchip distinguish Ernie form all other Keeshonds and dogs in general, around Australia and the world … it is his unique name, just like yours and mine.

It is the season….Spring has arrived, the sun is out, there is fresh growth in our gardens and we all feel better for it.

Unfortunately, this brings along skin conditions due to pollens and allergens.

These skin irritations are referred to as “atopic dermatitis”.  Atopy is typically associated with heightened immune responses to common allergens and the skin then responds through inflammation known as dermatitis.

With Spring now upon us, our gardens will be full of fresh growth with new flowers and pollens. This makes the backyard and park an inviting environment for our pets to play in and then to sun themselves in while snoozing.  Laying and playing in this new growth can cause skin irritations due to contact allergies.

Spiderworts, commonly known as "Wandering Jew" is a common cause of contact allergies in dogs as it is found in many backyards.  It has green, shiny leaves with parallel veins covered in small hairs. It establishes itself as a thick carpet-like groundcover in moist, shady areas. The species can have many forms.  See the attached photos.