Melbourne summers can be a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your pets - long daylight hours, park visits, beach trips and family adventures. However, our summer weather can also be unpredictable, with heatwaves, high UV levels and sudden temperature spikes posing real risks to dogs and cats. At Oakleigh Central Vet, we want to help you enjoy summer safely with your furry family members. Here’s a guide to pet-friendly summer activities and how to keep your pets safe w

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency in dogs and cats and can develop very quickly — sometimes in just minutes. While Victorian summers can bring extreme heat, heatstroke can also occur on warm or humid days, or when pets are unable to cool themselves effectively. Knowing the signs, how to prevent it, and what to do in an emergency can save your pet’s life. What Is Heatstroke? Heatstroke occurs when a pet’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels and they can no long

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important — and most challenging — aspects of caring for our pets. Extra weight doesn’t just change how your pet looks; it can affect their comfort, mobility and long-term health. The good news? With the right diet and proper portion control, weight management is achievable and sustainable. Why Weight Matters Overweight and obese pets are at increased risk of developing conditions such as: Arthritis and reduced mobility Diabetes

Indoor living keeps cats safe from traffic, fights parasites, and many infectious diseases. In Victoria, keeping cats contained is also an important way to protect local wildlife and comply with council regulations. While an indoor lifestyle offers many benefits, it does mean cat owners need to be more intentional about providing exercise and enrichment. Cats who live exclusively indoors rely entirely on their environment and routine to meet their physical and mental needs. W

Exercise is essential for a dog’s physical health, mental wellbeing and behaviour — but not all exercise suits all dogs. Age, breed, fitness level and Victoria’s climate (especially hot summers) all play a role in what safe  exercise looks like. Here’s how to tailor exercise plans for dogs at every stage of life, while keeping safety front of mind. Puppies: Building Strong Foundations (0–12 months) Puppies have endless enthusiasm, but their growing bones and joints need prote

Many pet parents are surprised to learn their dog or cat is overweight. Extra kilos often creep on slowly, and because we see our pets every day, changes in body shape can be easy to miss. Yet maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important ways to protect your pet’s long-term health and quality of life. So how can you tell if your pet is carrying more weight than they should? Why a Healthy Weight Matters Excess weight isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Being overweight c

Christmas and New Year are a time for celebration, connection and hosting friends and family. While these gatherings are exciting for us, they can be overwhelming — and sometimes risky — for our pets. With a little planning, you can help ensure everyone enjoys the festivities safely, including your four-legged family members. Why Get-Togethers Can Be Tricky for Pets During holiday gatherings, pets may be exposed to: Larger crowds and unfamiliar people Increased noise and exci

Christmas is a joyful time for families — and that includes our pets. But while we’re busy organising food, gifts and travel plans, it’s easy to forget that veterinary clinics, pet stores and delivery services may have reduced hours over the holiday period. A little planning now can help ensure your pet stays happy, healthy and comfortable throughout Christmas and into the New Year. Why Planning Ahead Matters During the Christmas and New Year period: Veterinary clinics may ha

For many families, the moment the Christmas tree goes up marks the true beginning of the festive season. Its lights, ornaments and fresh pine scent bring warmth and nostalgia into the home. But for our pets—especially the curious, playful and mischievous—Christmas trees can also present hidden dangers. Before the festivities reach full swing, here’s what every pet parent should know to keep Christmas magical and  safe. 1. The Tree Itself: Pine Needles & Tipping Hazards Whethe

As we get older, our needs change—physically, mentally and emotionally. While good nutrition, regular movement and social connection are often highlighted as pillars of healthy ageing, one powerful factor is sometimes overlooked: the deep and meaningful bond we share with our pets. Whether it’s a loyal dog waiting at the door, a cat curling up on the couch, or a bird chirping cheerfully each morning, the presence of animals in our lives can support healthy ageing in remarkabl