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Q: Do you offer after-hours veterinary services?
Yes, Gippsland Veterinary Group provides an after-hours service across our network of clinics, every day of the year. Our dedicated team is always on hand to assist with urgent animal health concerns, no matter the time of day or night.
Q: Do I need to go to a specific clinic for certain services?
Yes. For pet care, initial consultations and treatments are offered at each of our seven associated clinics, but you may be referred internally for certain procedures.  Please visit your local clinic page for further information on services provided.  After-hours services for our companion animal clients are offered out of Leongatha and/or Wonthaggi Veterinary Clinics only.  For farm and equine services, we have a dedicated clinic in Leongatha, equipped with appropriate facilities to safely accommodate larger animals.  Most of our livestock services in particular are provided on-farm.
Q: Can I see the same vet regularly?
We always strive for continuity of care and will do our best to book you with your preferred vet when available, particularly for ongoing cases. With multiple locations and a large team, we can also ensure your animals have timely access to veterinary care whenever needed.
Q: Is there a vet on-site to monitor patients overnight?

No, our clinics are not staffed overnight and inpatients are not monitored outside of our opening hours. However, all of our clinic phone lines are monitored 24/7, and a veterinarian is always available to provide advice or attend in-clinic or on-farm if required.

For pets/horses that require intensive or continuous overnight monitoring, we may recommend referral to an appropriate 24-hour facility.

Q: Which clinics do you offer your after-hours service from?
  • Companion animals: For pet care, the after-hours service for our seven companion animal clinics is provided from Leongatha and/or Wonthaggi Veterinary Clinics only. Call your local GVG clinic number at any time and dial extension 1. Our team will advise you which clinic to attend, if necessary.
  • Farm animals and Equine: Call the Livestock & Equine Centre or your local GVG clinic, and dial extension 2. Our ambulatory vets will be on hand to do a farm visit, or assess your horse at the Livestock & Equine Centre if practical.
Q: Do you charge extra for late or urgent consultations during regular clinic hours?
  • Companion Animals: At the end of each clinic's normal shift, the final consultation slot is reserved for urgent or emergency cases. If you book this slot, a surcharge applies, but it is not a full after-hours fee. The same surcharge applies to all consultation slots on Sunday mornings at our Wonthaggi and Leongatha Veterinary Clinics, during our advertised opening times of 10.30am - 12.00pm.
  • Equine: Calls taken after 4.30pm on weekdays or 11.30am on Saturday mornings that result in a vet arriving on farm after 5.30pm or 12.00pm respectively, incur a surcharge equal to half the standard after-hours fee.
Q: Do you offer after-hours care for horses?
Yes. We provide a 24/7 after-hours service for horses across our main service area. During busy seasons, we roster a dedicated equine vet every weekend. *Please note that after-hours services may not be available in areas we service via our Reduced Travel Fee Days, although if transport is available and appropriate, horses can be examined at our clinic*.
Q: Where do you treat horses?
We offer both on-farm services and in-clinic treatment at our Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha. Some procedures are best performed in-clinic. Our team will guide you.
Q: What facilities are available at the Livestock & Equine Centre?
The centre is purpose-built with stables, day yards, paddocks, round sand yard, firm trot-up area, crush with adjoining foal bay and indoor treatment area.  This allows us to perform more complex procedures in a safe and controlled environment.
Q: Can I leave my horse at the centre for treatment?
Yes. We often keep horses overnight when fasting is required prior to gastroscopy.  During the breeding season, mares and foals stay with us for frequent scanning and close monitoring around artificial insemination.  Horses may also be admitted for treatments including intravenous antibiotics, bandage changes, or other ongoing care.  This can reduce the need for multiple property visits, making treatment more cost-effective while allowing more consistent medical management.
Q: Do you offer 24-hour monitoring?
No.  While we provide attentive daily care and after-hours tasks such as mare scanning and insemination, we do not offer 24-hour intensive monitoring like referral equine hospitals.  For critically ill patients that require round-the-clock supervision (e.g. surgical colic cases), we may recommend transfer to a specialist facility.
Q: Where do you perform reproductive procedures?
We offer safe and convenient reproductive procedures at our Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha, where purpose-built facilities ensure your mare is well cared for. Ultrasound scanning can also be done on-farm, provided the crush is considered safe by our vets.
Q: Do you offer AI with frozen semen?
Yes. We offer both chilled and frozen artificial insemination, with regular mare monitoring during the breeding cycle to optimise timing.
Q: Can you help if my mare has had trouble conceiving?
Yes. Our team offers thorough sub-fertility investigations and tailored treatment options to help identify and address issues affecting conception success.
Q: Do you provide care for newborn foals?
Yes.  We provide perinatal care, including full health checks and IgG testing at 12-24 hours of age, to assess if your foal has received enough colostrum for early immunity.  If levels are low, we can give a plasma transfusion on farm if desired.  Our vets are also experienced in treating common neonatal conditions, helping foals get the best possible start in life. 
Q: Can you perform X-rays and ultrasounds on-farm?

Yes. We offer wireless digital X-ray and ultrasound services on-farm, providing immediate results and reducing the need for transport.

Q: When is gastroscopy recommended?
Gastroscopy is used to diagnose gastric ulcers in horses showing signs like poor performance, girth sensitivity, or weight loss. It’s also recommended after treatment to confirm healing and guide ongoing management.
Q: Are blood test results available on the same day?
Many of our on-farm blood tests provide instant results. For more detailed lab panels, we offer fast in-clinic processing to minimise delays in treatment decisions.  More specialised tests can be sent to accredited veterinary pathology labs from our clinics via daily courier pick-ups.
Q: Do you offer diagnostic packages for pre-purchase exams?
Yes. We can tailor pre-purchase exams to suit your needs, including options for survey radiography (X-rays), endoscopy and bloodwork where appropriate.
Q: When should my horse have a dental check?
We recommend an annual dental examination and treatment for most horses. Young and geriatric horses, or those with specific dental issues may need more frequent care.  We will guide you accordingly.
Q: Do you offer point-of-care blood testing on farm?
Yes.  Our vets carry analysers for lactate, serum amyloid A and insulin in their vehicles.  This allows for rapid results to aid decision making on-farm, particularly important in ill patients. 
Q: What’s included in the Zone Travel Days?
These weekly visits focus on elective services like dentistry, castrations, pre-purchase exams, microchipping, freezebranding, and radiographs. Travel is charged at a fixed reduced rate.
Q: Do you offer targeted therapies for joint care?
Yes. We offer Pro-Stride, a regenerative therapy that uses your horse’s own blood to create a healing solution for joint inflammation and early arthritis.  We also use other intra-articular therapies, such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid.
Q: How do I book a visit or ask questions?
Simply contact the Livestock & Equine Centre or your nearest GVG clinic and dial extension 2. If you are outside our normal area and want to join a Reduced Travel Fee Day, ask our staff about upcoming dates or check our social media pages for updated information.
Q: Do you offer after-hours care for farm animals?
Yes. We provide a 24/7 after-hours service for farm animals across our main service area. If you're dealing with a down cow, prolapse or calving/lambing difficulty, call us anytime.
Q: Where do you treat livestock?
We provide on-farm services across South Gippsland and Bass Coast. Some advanced diagnostics and procedures for young calves and small ruminants such as goats can also be arranged at our Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha.
Q: Do you support hobby farmers and small herds?
Absolutely. We welcome hobby farmers and small-scale producers, offering the same level of professional service and advice as for larger farms. Talk to us about practical, tailored herd/flock health plans.
Q: How do I book a visit or ask questions?
Simply contact the Livestock & Equine Centre or your nearest GVG clinic and dial extension 2. Our staff can help you schedule a visit, answer questions or arrange after-hours support.
Q: Do I need to be a regular client to use your after-hours service?
Our after-hours service is available to all clients of GVG, with cover provided from our Leongatha and Wonthaggi veterinary clinics.  For new or inactive clients, a telehealth consultation fee may apply for the initial phone call with our on-call vet.  This fee covers the first assessment and advice given over the phone, before your pet may need to come into the clinic for further examination and treatment.
Q: Can I request a specific vet?
Yes, where possible we will accommodate requests for a particular vet, especially for ongoing cases.
Q: Do you offer payment options?
Yes, we work with third-party payment providers and can discuss staged treatment plans where appropriate.
Q: Do you see exotic pets?
While our most common patients are dogs and cats, we can and do treat a wide range of companion animals including rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and reptiles.
Q: Do pets really need dental X-rays?
Yes. Dental disease often hides below the gum line. X-rays let us diagnose problems we cannot see and guide safer, more effective treatment.
Q: Will my pet be in pain after extractions?
With modern pain relief, including nerve blocks and anti-inflammatories, pets are kept comfortable. Many owners notice their pets are happier and more energetic after recovery.
Q: Can dental disease be prevented?
Yes, regular home care such as tooth brushing, dental chews and periodic professional cleaning can help prevent disease.
Q: Do you offer payment options?
Yes. We can discuss staged treatment or work with approved payment providers to help spread costs.
Q: Will my pet be in pain after surgery?
We use modern pain relief before, during and after surgery to keep pets comfortable. Many recover faster than owners expect.
Q: How long will my pet take to recover?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. We will provide specific home care advice and let you know what to expect.
Q: Is anaesthesia safe for older pets?
With modern protocols and pre-anaesthetic testing, anaesthesia is much safer than in the past. We tailor each plan to the individual patient.
Q: Can I choose a specific vet to perform my pet’s surgery?
Yes, where possible we accommodate requests for a particular veterinary surgeon.
Q: Why can’t my pet’s problem be diagnosed without tests?
Many illnesses cause vague symptoms. Testing helps pinpoint the cause so we can treat it effectively.
Q: Do you send any tests to external labs?
Yes. Some specialised tests, such as hormone profiles or advanced pathology, are sent to trusted veterinary laboratories.
Q: Are diagnostic tests painful for my pet?
Most tests are non-invasive or minimally invasive, and we take care to keep your pet comfortable throughout.
Q: Can I request specific tests for my pet?
Yes. We can discuss which tests are most appropriate based on your pet’s symptoms and history.
Q: Do you take walk-in emergencies?
Yes, but please phone ahead if possible so that we can prepare for your arrival.
Q: Will my pet be monitored overnight?
No, overnight monitoring is limited.  If this is deemed necessary, we generally recommend transfer to a 24-hour emergency veterinary facility.
Q: What should I do if I find injured wildlife?
Call Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300 to report the situation and get advice, or visit their website to report the incident online.  GVG deals with many injured wildlife cases each year and it is preferable if these animals are brought to us by trained and registered wildlife handlers. 
Q: How often should my pet have a check-up?
At least once a year, more often for senior pets or those with chronic conditions.  We will guide you on the ideal frequency on a case-by-case basis. 
Q: Do indoor pets still need vaccinations and parasite control?
Yes — indoor pets can still be exposed to diseases and parasites through contact with other animals, people or the environment.
Q: Is preventive care really necessary if my pet seems healthy?
Yes — early disease detection often means more treatment options, less invasive care and better long-term outcomes.
Q: Do you offer health plans or packages?
We can discuss tailored preventive care packages and work with you to spread costs if preferred.
Q: Do you offer euthanasia at home?
Yes.  We understand that many families prefer their pet's final moments to be in the comfort of home.  Our vets can provide at-home euthanasia, allowing your pet to remain in a familiar and peaceful environment, surrounded by loved ones.  
Q: What is internal medicine?

It is the branch of veterinary medicine focused on diagnosing and treating complex or long-term illnesses affecting the body’s internal systems.

Q: Do you manage chronic conditions like diabetes?

Yes.  We provide full diagnostic, treatment and monitoring support for many different chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism.

Q: When would my pet be referred to a specialist?

If highly specialised care or 24-hour monitoring is required, we refer to trusted referral hospitals.

Q: Is raw feeding safe?

Raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination. We recommend balanced, vet-approved diets for safety and nutrition.

Q: Can diet really manage disease?

Yes, nutrition plays a vital role in managing many chronic conditions.

Q: Do you sell prescription diets?

Yes, we stock and can order prescription-only diets recommended by our vets.

Q: When can my puppy start?

Your puppy can join once they are at least 8 weeks of age and have received their first vaccination.  This ensures they are protected while safely socialising with other puppies. 

Q: Do I need to attend all sessions?

Yes, each builds on the last for consistency. We strongly recommend you attend all sessions. 

Q: What if my puppy is shy or nervous?

Our experienced nurses create a calm environment and adapt the sessions to suit every pup.

Q: Do I need to be a regular client to book my pet in for grooming?

No, grooming is available to all pets in the community.  However, being a GVG client means your groomer can quickly liaise with our veterinary team if they notice anything unusual, ensuring seamless care. 

Q: How often should my pet be groomed?

This depends on many factors including coat type and lifestyle — we can advise during your pet’s session.

Q: Do you groom cats as well as dogs?

Yes, although it may depend on temperament.  Pets are generally not sedated for grooming, our staff use gentle handling and positive techniques to help animals feel calm and comfortable.  If a pet has severe anxiety of health concerns however, we may discuss options for anti-anxiety medication or mild sedation with our vets to ensure that the process is as stress-free as possible.

Q: Can I pay my farm or equine vet directly on the day?
Yes. Our farm animal and equine vets carry the Tyro app on their phones, allowing secure card payments to be processed during your visit. This means you don’t need to travel into a clinic just to settle your account.
Q: Can I combine a seniors discount with another payment option?
Yes, the discount applies to eligible services, and you can then choose how you’d like to pay the remaining balance.
Q: What if my insurer isn’t part of GapOnly®?
You can still pay in full at the time of your visit and lodge a manual claim directly with your insurer.
Q: Do these payment options apply to emergency and after-hours care?
Yes - however, in urgent situations, deposits may be required at admission, with final settlement at discharge.
Q: How do I apply for VetPay?
Applications can be completed online or at the clinic. Approval is usually quick, allowing you to proceed with treatment straight away.
Q: Is Afterpay available for all services?

Most consultations and procedures are eligible, but please confirm with our reception team before your visit.

Q: Can I be present during euthanasia?
Yes. Many owners choose to stay with their pet, while others prefer to say goodbye beforehand. We respect whichever feels right for you.
Q: Can children or other pets be involved?
This is a family decision. We can help guide you on how to involve children in an age-appropriate way, and whether other pets may benefit from being present.
Q: Is euthanasia painful?

No. The process is gentle and humane. Sedation ensures that your pet is relaxed and unaware.

Q: What if I change my mind?
We will never rush you. If you need more time, we can pause or reschedule. Your comfort and your pet’s wellbeing are always our priorities.
Q: How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on location, aftercare choice, and whether euthanasia is at home or in-clinic. Our reception team can provide a clear estimate.
Q: Where are Gippsland Veterinary Group's clinics?

GVG has eight locations across South Gippsland and Bass Coast: companion animal clinics in Foster, Grantville, Inverloch, Leongatha, Mirboo North, Newhaven and Wonthaggi, and the Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha for horses and farm animals.

Q: What animals does GVG treat?

Dogs, cats and other pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and reptiles, as well as horses, dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats and other livestock. We look after family pets, hobby farms and commercial herds.

Q: Can I speak to a vet after hours?

Yes. Every GVG clinic phone line is answered 24/7. Call your nearest clinic and press 1 for pet emergencies or 2 for livestock and horse emergencies, and our on-call vet will advise you and arrange to see your animal if needed.

Q: How do I book an appointment?

Book online through our website or call your nearest clinic. For farm visits and horses, call the Livestock & Equine Centre on (03) 5662 2251, or any GVG clinic, and dial extension 2.

Q: How long has GVG been caring for animals in Gippsland?

Since 1952. For more than 70 years we've grown from our dairy roots into a group of eight clinics caring for pets, horses and farm animals across South Gippsland and Bass Coast.

Q: What number do I call in an after-hours emergency?

Call your nearest GVG clinic on its usual number, any time of day or night. Press 1 for companion animal (pet) emergencies or 2 for livestock and equine emergencies, and you'll be put through to the on-call vet.

Q: Do I need to be a GVG client to use the after-hours service?

No. The after-hours service is open to all clients. Active patients get the first phone consultation free. New or inactive clients may pay a telehealth fee for the initial phone assessment, which covers the on-call vet's advice before your pet comes in.

Q: Where will my animal be seen after hours?

After-hours care for pets is provided from our Leongatha and Wonthaggi Veterinary Clinics. For horses and livestock, the on-call vet can see your animal at the Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha or on your property.

Q: When should I call rather than wait until morning?

Call straight away if your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is bleeding heavily, may have eaten something toxic, could have been bitten by a snake, is straining without passing urine or is in obvious pain. For livestock, call any time for a down cow, a prolapse or a difficult calving or lambing.

Q: Should I call before bringing my pet in for an emergency?

Yes, if you can. Call your nearest clinic on the way so the team can prepare for your arrival. Outside opening hours, call any GVG clinic and press 1 for pets or 2 for horses and livestock.

Q: Which GVG clinics can hospitalise my pet?

Hospital care is available at all our clinics except Inverloch and Grantville. If your pet needs to stay in, our team will explain where they'll be cared for.

Q: What happens if my pet needs intensive care overnight?

Our clinics aren't staffed overnight. If your pet needs round-the-clock monitoring, our vets will stabilise them and arrange a transfer to a 24-hour emergency hospital.

Q: How do I pay for emergency treatment?

Payment is normally due at discharge, and a deposit may be needed when your pet is admitted. VetPay and Afterpay can help spread the cost, and GapOnly lets eligible pet insurance claims be processed on the spot.

Q: Where is the Leongatha Veterinary Clinic?

At 32 Anderson Street, Leongatha VIC 3953, on the South Gippsland Highway at Leongatha's western entrance. Call (03) 5662 2251 or email leongatha@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Leongatha clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-6:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-1:00pm and Sunday 10:30am-12:00pm. A surcharge applies to Sunday consultations. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: What services does the Leongatha clinic offer?

Consultations, vaccinations and health checks, internal medicine, diagnostics (digital X-ray, ultrasound with echocardiography, blood tests and cytology), desexing, soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery including TTA, dentistry, hospital care, nutrition advice and puppy school.

Q: Do you see pets from Korumburra and nearby towns?

Yes. Our Leongatha clinic cares for pets from Korumburra, Koonwarra, Meeniyan, Dumbalk and the surrounding district, and after-hours care for pets is also based here.

Q: Does the Leongatha clinic run puppy school?

Yes. Puppy school runs at Leongatha and Newhaven as a four-week course for puppies from 8 weeks old who've had their first vaccination. It covers socialisation, toilet training, nutrition and parasite prevention, basic commands, and grooming and handling.

Q: Where is the Wonthaggi Veterinary Clinic?

At 290 White Road, Wonthaggi VIC 3995. It's a purpose-built companion animal hospital with plenty of on-site parking. Call (03) 5672 1044 or email wonthaggi@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Wonthaggi clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-6:00pm, Saturday 8:30am-1:00pm and Sunday 10:30am-12:00pm. A surcharge applies to Sunday consultations. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: What services does the Wonthaggi clinic offer?

Consultations and vaccinations, desexing, soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery, dentistry with dental X-ray, endoscopy, ultrasound with echocardiography, digital X-ray and blood tests, plus pet food and products, and dispensing of farm and horse medications.

Q: Is Wonthaggi the after-hours clinic for Bass Coast?

Yes. After-hours care for pets is provided from our Wonthaggi and Leongatha clinics. Outside opening hours, call any GVG clinic and press 1 for pets or 2 for horses and livestock.

Q: Where is the Newhaven Veterinary Clinic?

At 42 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven VIC 3925, at the gateway to Phillip Island. Call (03) 5956 7262 or email newhaven@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Newhaven clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm and Saturday 8:30am-12:30pm. The clinic is closed on public holiday weekends. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: Can you see my pet while we're on holiday on Phillip Island?

Yes. We care for locals and visitors alike. If your pet becomes unwell or is injured while you're holidaying on Phillip Island or in San Remo, call (03) 5956 7262 and we'll arrange to see you.

Q: Do you treat injured wildlife?

Yes. The Newhaven clinic cares for injured wildlife in partnership with Phillip Island Nature Parks and Wildlife Victoria. If you find injured wildlife, call Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300 for advice. It's best if the animal is brought in by a trained wildlife handler.

Q: Is puppy school available at Newhaven?

Yes. Newhaven runs our four-week puppy school for puppies from 8 weeks old who've had their first vaccination, covering socialisation, toilet training, basic commands and handling.

Q: Where is the Inverloch Veterinary Clinic?

At 16B Williams Street, Inverloch VIC 3996, a short stroll from the beach. Call (03) 5674 2408 or email inverloch@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Inverloch clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm and Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm. The clinic is closed on public holiday weekends. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: Do you offer pet grooming in Inverloch?

Yes. Inverloch is the only GVG clinic with pet grooming. See our pet grooming page for services, or call (03) 5674 2408 to book.

Q: What if my pet needs surgery or to stay in hospital?

Inverloch focuses on consultations, preventive care and grooming, and doesn't have hospital facilities. If your pet needs surgery or hospital care, we'll arrange it at a nearby GVG clinic.

Q: Where is the Grantville Veterinary Clinic?

At Unit 2/1524 Bass Highway, Grantville VIC 3984. The clinic opened in 2024. Call (03) 5672 1060 or email grantville@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Grantville clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm. Consultations are by appointment. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: What services does the Grantville clinic offer?

General consultations, puppy, kitten and adult vaccinations, parasite prevention, nutrition advice, prescription medications and pet products, blood tests, and elective surgery such as desexing, lump removals and soft tissue procedures.

Q: Which areas does the Grantville clinic serve?

Grantville and the surrounding Bass Coast and Western Port area, including Corinella, Coronet Bay, Bass, Kilcunda and Phillip Island.

Q: Where is the Foster Veterinary Clinic?

At 15-17 Court Street, Foster VIC 3960. Call (03) 5682 2757 or email foster@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Foster clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm and Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm. The clinic is closed on public holiday weekends. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: Do you treat horses and farm animals at Foster?

Yes. Foster is a mixed practice caring for pets, horses and farm animals. Our farm animal and equine vets work across the Foster district, and more advanced large-animal work is done at our Livestock & Equine Centre in Leongatha.

Q: Which areas does the Foster clinic serve?

Foster and surrounding towns including Fish Creek, Toora, Welshpool, Yanakie and the Wilsons Promontory area.

Q: Where is the Mirboo North Veterinary Clinic?

At 3 Peters Street, Mirboo North VIC 3871. Call (03) 5668 1225 or email mirboonorth@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Mirboo North clinic's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm. Consultations are by appointment. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: What services does the Mirboo North clinic offer?

Health checks and vaccinations, lameness, skin and eye checks, desexing and lump removals, dental care, in-house blood tests and cytology, short-term hospital care, and pet food, supplements and medications.

Q: Can I get farm and horse medications at Mirboo North?

Yes. The Mirboo North clinic dispenses prescription medications for farm animals and horses. Call ahead on (03) 5668 1225 so your order is ready.

Q: Where is the Livestock & Equine Centre?

At 195 South Gippsland Highway, Leongatha VIC 3953. Call (03) 5662 2251 or email lec@gippsvet.com.au.

Q: What are the Livestock & Equine Centre's opening hours?

Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:30pm and Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm. Two to three vets are on call for after-hours horse and livestock emergencies. Phone lines are answered 24/7 for emergencies.

Q: What services does the Livestock & Equine Centre offer?

Equine dentistry, lameness investigations, reproduction, pre-purchase exams, gastroscopy and endoscopy, plus herd and flock health, mastitis investigations, faecal testing, disbudding and dehorning. On-site diagnostics include ultrasound, X-ray and blood testing.

Q: Do I bring my animal in, or do you come to me?

Either. The centre has facilities built for horses and large animals, and our vets also visit properties. Weekly Zone Travel Days cover elective horse work like dentistry, castrations and pre-purchase exams at a fixed, reduced travel rate.

Q: Do you offer 24/7 emergency care for horses?

Yes. Our equine vets are on call 24/7. Call the Livestock & Equine Centre on (03) 5662 2251, or any GVG clinic, and press 2.

Q: Do you do pre-purchase examinations?

Yes. Our vets carry out pre-purchase exams at the Livestock & Equine Centre or on your property, including on our weekly Zone Travel Days.

Q: Can you help with breeding and foaling?

Yes. Our reproductive services support breeding mares, including Caslick's procedures, and we can check your newborn foal, including an IgG blood test to confirm it has absorbed enough antibodies from colostrum.

Q: Do you treat lameness and hoof abscesses?

Yes. Lameness investigation is a core part of our equine service. Sudden severe lameness is often a hoof abscess, which we can locate and drain, and we use digital X-ray and ultrasound to investigate less obvious cases.

Q: Do you offer Mastatest for mastitis?

Yes. We run Mastatest in our on-site laboratory. It identifies the bacteria causing mastitis from a milk sample and shows which antibiotics are likely to work, so treatment can be targeted.

Q: Can you test my stock for worms or coccidia?

Yes. We use the Parasight analyser for parasite monitoring, and our faecal testing and scour panels help diagnose problems like coccidiosis and show whether a drench is needed.

Q: Do you help with lameness in dairy herds?

Yes. Our lameness service uses a mobile trailer, and we offer hoof trimming and lameness management for dairy and beef herds.

Q: What's included in a herd health program?

Our herd health programs are tailored to your farm and can include reproduction and AI planning, mastitis prevention with dry cow and heifer teat sealing, trace element testing, parasite control and analysis of your herd records.

Q: Do you offer payment plans for vet bills?

Yes. VetPay lets you spread the cost of professional fees over flexible repayments, with fast approval online or in the clinic (interest and fees apply). Afterpay splits eligible bills into four interest-free fortnightly payments.

Q: Is there a discount for pensioners?

Yes. Holders of a Commonwealth Pensioner Concession Card (Aged or Disability Support Pension) receive 10% off veterinary services and 5% off medications paid for at the time of purchase, for companion animal and equine services. Show your card at reception.

Q: Do I need to pay a deposit for surgery or a hospital stay?

Yes. A deposit is required when your pet is admitted, and new clients pay the full estimated amount upfront. The balance is due at discharge.

Q: Does VetPay cover medications and products?

No. VetPay covers professional fees only, not retail products.

Q: Do you offer euthanasia at home?

Yes. Our vets can come to your home so your pet can stay somewhere familiar and peaceful, surrounded by the people they love.

Q: What cremation options are available?

You can choose communal cremation, private cremation or home burial. We also offer keepsakes such as urns, scatter boxes, paw prints, fur clippings and memorial cards.

Q: Which clinics offer end-of-life care?

In-clinic euthanasia is available at Foster, Grantville, Inverloch, Leongatha, Mirboo North, Newhaven and Wonthaggi, and our vets can also visit you at home.

Q: Can you help keep my pet comfortable in their final weeks?

Yes. Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life, with pain relief, appetite support and practical changes at home. We'll help you plan ahead and recognise when it may be time.

Q: How soon should a newborn foal stand?

A healthy foal should stand without help within the first hour of life.

Q: When should a newborn foal start drinking?

Within the first two hours of life. A healthy foal nurses 3-5 times an hour, taking around 50-60ml each time.

Q: How much colostrum does a foal need?

2-3 litres of good quality colostrum within the first 12 hours of life. Antibody absorption peaks in the first 6-12 hours and drops to zero by 24 hours, so early feeding is critical.

Q: When should my foal have an IgG test?

Between 12 and 48 hours of age. The blood test checks whether your foal has absorbed enough antibodies from colostrum, so treatment can start early if it hasn't.

Q: Is diarrhoea normal in a young foal?

Mild diarrhoea around 7-10 days after foaling, often called foal heat diarrhoea, is common. Call your vet if your foal is dull, stops feeding, or the diarrhoea is severe or doesn't settle.

Q: What are the signs of a hoof abscess in a horse?

Sudden, often severe lameness, sometimes overnight, to the point the horse won't put weight on the leg. The foot may feel warmer than normal with a stronger digital pulse, and the abscess may burst out at the coronary band or heel bulbs.

Q: How is a hoof abscess treated?

Usually by locating the abscess and carefully opening it so it can drain, with pain relief if needed. Soaking and poulticing help draw out the remaining infection. Antibiotics generally aren't needed unless a deeper infection is suspected.

Q: Why should a vet check a suspected hoof abscess?

Sudden severe lameness has other causes too, including fractures and deeper infections. An early check makes sure your horse gets the right treatment and pain relief quickly.

Q: Will my horse make a full recovery?

Most horses return to normal work once the abscess has drained and the hoof has healed and strengthened.

Q: Which calves and lambs are most at risk of coccidiosis?

Calves and lambs from about 3 weeks old, especially around weaning, when stress, overstocking and wet or dirty pens let the parasite build up.

Q: What are the signs of coccidiosis?

Mild to severe diarrhoea, often with blood, straining or abdominal pain, weight loss and poor growth. Nervous signs or convulsions are rare. Severe cases can be fatal.

Q: How is coccidiosis diagnosed?

With a faecal test. We examine faecal samples under the microscope to confirm coccidia and measure the parasite load.

Q: How can I prevent coccidiosis?

Keep pens clean and dry with good drainage, avoid overstocking, keep stock movements to a minimum at weaning and feed well. In high-risk groups, a coccidiostat such as monensin or lasalocid in feed, or a preventative toltrazuril treatment, can help.

Q: How is coccidiosis treated?

Clinical cases are usually treated with toltrazuril, along with supportive care. Talk to your vet about the right product and timing for your stock.

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