Vetlife Pets

28/05/2026

Say Hello to Dylan! 👋 🐐

Dylan was in at our Temuka clinic recently for an x-ray. It's not every day that the Temuka Team have a pet goat in the clinic, and he was an instant hit with them!

The veterinary team, including Duncan, Meagan, and Amy, thoroughly checked him over and gave some instructions to take it easy.

Meanwhile, Dylan's brother Thomas missed him dearly and spent his entire day waiting by the gate for his return. Check out their adorable throwback photo together as little kids!

26/05/2026

A reminder that all Vetlife clinics will be closed on Monday 1st June for the public holiday. However, EMERGENCY VET SERVICES are available if needed by calling your local clinic:https://hubs.la/Q04hfC0k0

19/05/2026

Do you know what’s really in your pet's mouth…
It’s easy to overlook your pet’s dental health, but dental disease is one of the most common problems seen in cats and dogs.

Up to 70% of cats and 80% of dogs will show signs of dental disease by just 2 years of age.
That’s why it’s so important to start preventative care early and learn how to recognise symptoms from the day you bring your pet home.

Our teams are trained in stress‑free handling, so they can safely and calmly check inside your pet’s mouth and get a clear view of their teeth.

Healthy teeth mean a happier, healthier pet.
Book a dental check with your local Vetlife team today.

11/05/2026

***Please note: This post includes surgical dental images from Ernie’s procedure (before and after)***

When Ernie came in to see the team at Vetlife on Alabama (pictured with the wonderful Vet Katalin and nurse Frances), it wasn’t for his mouth at all, he was limping on his right hind leg. But during his health check, the vet discovered something much more serious: severe dental disease, even though Ernie was still eating normally. The only small change at home was that he had started suckling.

Ernie was given a Grade 5 dental score, and once under anaesthetic we found just how much he’d been coping with:

🦷10 teeth needed to be extracted

🦷16 teeth were already missing

🦷He now has 4 teeth remaining

Despite all of this, Ernie had been carrying on with life as if nothing was wrong, a powerful example of how pets can quietly endure discomfort.

After his procedure, Ernie did return with an infection at his upper canine extraction site, but with an extended course of antibiotics, it cleared up beautifully. He’s now doing really well.

Ernie’s story is a great reminder that dental disease often goes unnoticed, even when it’s severe.

11/05/2026

If you’re able to open your home to an animal in need this winter, fostering through SPCA is a wonderful way to make a real difference. It’s a cause we’re proud to get behind. 💙

With thousands of animals coming into our care in the lead up to winter, we need more foster homes! 🙏

Fostering is perfect for those who want to make a difference for vulnerable animals, but can’t make the long-term commitment of adopting. When you foster, everything you need is provided by SPCA, so there’s no cost to you.

Some animals need to spend time in foster to recover from injuries or surgery, while others may just need time to come out of their shells, socialise, or experience a loving home for the first time ❤️

In order to meet demand and ensure we can free up space for more incoming animals in our Centres, we need an additional 250 foster homes for dogs and puppies, as well as small and farm animals too.

If you can provide a short-term loving home to an animal in need this winter, learn more and sign up via our website: www.spca.nz/fosterwinter2026

05/05/2026

Throughout May and June, we’re shining a spotlight on all things dental across our Vetlife clinics. Dental disease is one of the most common issues we see and because pets are so good at hiding discomfort, regular checks are incredibly important.

To support dental hygiene, we are pleased to offer you some fantastic offers! These are all designed to support healthy teeth and gums at home and help keep your pet smiling.

If you have any questions about your pet’s dental health, or you’re unsure whether they might need a check‑up, your local Vetlife clinic is here to help. Give your nearest team a call, we’re always happy to chat and help you keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

Veterinary advice is recommended for all animal health treatments. *One free C.E.T. 401 Home Dental Kit per scale and polish or extraction; Offer available until the 30th June 2026 subject to availability and while stocks last; Not available in conjunction with any other offers. Vetlife reserves the right to change terms
and conditions without notice. Further terms and conditions apply; see https://hubs.la/Q04fyVvh0.

02/05/2026

This is Crim, a one‑year‑old American Staffy who has been working hard on feeling more comfortable during his clinic visits.

When he first started coming in, Crim found it really stressful to get on the scales or even walk into the consult room. So the team at Vetlife Temuka made a few changes to help him out: they moved the scales to a quieter spot and added a comfy bed on top. Now he chooses to hop onto the scales all by himself.

The Vetlife Temuka team always make sure his visits are positive, with plenty of encouragement, playtime, and of course his favourite… ball games. During his last visit, Crim took another big step forward and went into the consult room, a place he wouldn’t go the previous time, even when tempted with his ball. He’s making such great progress!!

01/05/2026

Did you know dental disease can start long before you see any signs?

Even small amounts of plaque can lead to gum inflammation, tooth pain, and infections. Regular dental checks help catch issues early and support your pet’s overall health.

If you’re unsure about your pet’s dental condition, please reach out to your local Vetlife clinic or pop in to take advantage of some of the great offers we currently have available.

30/04/2026

🤝 Meet the Merchant!

A trusted name in animal care across Mid Canterbury.

Vetlife Ashburton provides round-the-clock veterinary support for both farm and companion animals, combining expert advice, strong relationships, and the latest technology to deliver real value on farm and at home.

From dairy herds to family pets, it’s all about personalised care and better outcomes.

Read more 👇
https://www.ruralco.co.nz/Latest-Ruralco-News/Latest-News/ArticleID/735/Expert-animal-care-day-and-night

22/04/2026

ANZAC Day Closure Notice

Please note that our clinics will be closed on ANZAC Day (Saturday 25th) and Monday 27th as we take time to honor and remember those who have served.

🐾 Need emergency care? If your pet requires urgent medical attention, don’t wait - call your local Vetlife clinic to connect with our emergency vet line.

Clinic contact details can be found here:
https://hubs.la/Q04d00mR0