An extensive array of laboratory services are sourced from several different laboratories within NZ.
MVS Small Animals was one of the first clinics in New Zealand to begin using ultrasound in companion animal diagnostics. Ultrasound provides a non-invasive and low risk assessment that compliments radiography in imaging our patients.
The thorough examination of the heart requires not only radiography and ultrasound but also an examination of the electrical activity that is occurring within the heart. This information is provided by the ECG Machine.
High blood pressure is being recognized now as a significant issue for our pets. Similarly the recognition and management of low blood pressure in critical care situation is vital.
In human medicine measurement of blood pressure is a routine component of any health check. However until recently technical difficulties have made blood pressure measurement difficult in cats and dogs.
Studies have shown that blood pressure management is a very important component of many disease states espectially in cats. Pets with kidney disease, heart disease and thyroid disease all need to have BP managed effectively. Regular BP checks are now an important part of health management of older cats.
Unfortunately it is difficulat to accurately and efficiently measure BP in cats. The recent acquisition of a High Definition Oscillometric (HDO) Blood Pressure recorder has made this difficult task simple. A little cuff like a miniature human one is placed around the tail and the machine just does its thing. While this machine may look simple, it is in fact very sophisticated.
We use this equipment every day now, not only in cats but also dogs. It is useful in helping manage some diseases but also in critical care of trauma patients and the seriously ill. It enables us to continue to improve the level of care we provide your pets.
Endoscopes allow veterinarians to examine inside body cavities. We have a rigid endoscope which is used for endoscopic insemination, nasal and ear examinations, bladder examinations in dogs and tracheobronchial examination.
We have access to a range of flexible endoscopes via our Equine Hospital should the need arise.
Through better health care and nutrition our pets are now living longer, but we are also seeing more and more cases of cancer in pets' as they age.
The appropriate treatment of cancer is complex involving both medical and surgical disciplines. Many companion animal cancer patients can benefit from chemotherapy and other medical treatments.
Our goal with chemotherapy is to maximize the benefit without the adverse effects seen with high doses in human medicine. Most of our patients show no adverse effects to the treatment.
Sometimes in the best interest of you and your pet's health, we may recommend referral. This may be either in-house or external.
Specialisation and Special interests In-house:
Nigel Kittow - Skin disease, general medicine, Reproduction, Critical Care, PennHIP radiography
Chris Hutchings - Surgery, Microchipping
Fiona Hollinshead - Registered Specialist in Small Animal Reproduction
Steve McGill - Orthopaedic Surgery, Neurology
MVS Small Animals also refers patients to specialists throughout New Zealand:
The Veterinary Specialist Group - Auckland
The Small Animal Surgeon - Auckland
Animal Eye Centre - Auckland/Hamilton
Veterinary Dermatologist - Auckland/Hamilton
Veterinary Cardiologist - Hamilton
Massey University - Palmerston North
The sciences of medical diagnoses and treatment are expanding at an exponential rate. To ensure the services being provided are modern and appropriate MVS veterinarians and nurses regularly attend training and courses both in NZ and overseas. This enables our veterinarians to provide you with the best options and choices for your companion animals.
Professional development is not just about attending conferences and courses however. It is about continually striving to provide the best care possible. To enable our staff to achieve this goal MVS Small Animals provides a library of resource material and access to on-line learning and information.
This continual development of knowledge and staff ensures that options available at MVS Small Animals are both broad and up to date.