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Last week, we introduced you to Gromit, a 16-week-old American Bulldog pup, and just before we closed for the Easter break, something pretty special happened, Gromit was adopted! Ben, Gromit’s new dad, saw Gromit on our website and something clicked instantly. Ben said there was something about Gromit that just felt right. “It was unbelievable. I saw his photo and felt a bond straight away. I could see he’d have a life with us.” Ben said. From that point on, the decision was easy. “That’s our son, he’s coming home with me. I rushed over to Campbellfield so no one could adopt him first.” And it didn’t take long for Gromit to settle in. “He’s so cool at home, he’s already made himself comfortable.” We truly believe some animals are just waiting for the right person to find them and Gromit found his. Thank you, Ben, for opening your heart and home to this special boy. We’re still closed for Easter break, but we reopen Tuesday at 10am for adoptions at Campbellfield Adoption Centre.

Veterinarian Dr James from Lort Smith Animal Hospital is reminding families to keep their furry friends safe this Easter. Beyond the obvious dangers of chocolate, sweet treats, fatty leftovers and hot cross buns, there are a few other risks to keep in mind. Decorations like plastic grass and small toys can cause serious blockages if swallowed, and lilies are extremely toxic to cats. With visitors, noise and plenty of excitement, pets can also feel overwhelmed, so it’s important to stick to their routine and provide a quiet, safe space for them to retreat to. “Easter egg hunts are a ton of fun, but keep pets out of the search area,” Dr James advises, “It’s a good idea to count how many eggs you have and find them all, because your dog will find them if you don’t.” Know your nearest emergency vet, just in case. And check your pet’s microchip and ID tags are up to date, especially if you’ve got guests coming over and doors opening every five seconds. “Rabbits aren’t just Easter presents, they require care, love and commitment,” Dr James adds, “Not just a cameo for your Easter photos.” Have a safe, happy Easter, be prepared and don’t be a bunny! Share this to help keep pets safe this Easter 🐰🐾🐣

Back in February we introduced you to Brian, our oldest doggo at the shelter. We are super sad (and surprised!) to report that he is still waiting for a home. Every day, we look into his soulful eyes and wonder why he hasn’t been chosen. What Brian really wants is simple, someone to love and someone to love him back…forever. He adores cuddles, leans in for affection, and stays close by your side, soaking up every moment together. It is almost his tenth birthday, and we need your help to make sure he spends his special milestone in a home where he will be cherished to the fullest. He’s the perfect mix of gentle companion and playful spirit, still enjoying his walks, a game of tug, and his favourite puzzle toys. After spending time living on the streets, Brian deserves to spend his golden years safe, warm, and loved. Visit Brian at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre or submit an expression of interest today! lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 956000006104774 Source Code: BR296075

The lead-up to Easter often means more rich meals, leftovers, and unfortunately, more risks for our pets. Lucky, a four-year-old Beagle-Cavalier cross, was brought into Lort Smith’s Emergency Department after being given a roasted pork knuckle as a treat, something his mum, Marina, wouldn’t normally feed him. “I never give him bones, but my mum brought it over and I thought I’d treat him,” said Marina. “The next day he just shut down. I knew something was really wrong.” Not long after eating the bone, Lucky began vomiting, refused to eat, and became very lethargic. “He was really down in the dumps, had no energy and wasn’t himself at all,” she said. On examination, our veterinary team found Lucky was dehydrated. He was given an anti-nausea injection and electrolytes to help rehydrate and stabilise him. “That really helped him, he started eating again,” Marina said. “He’s back to his normal self now.” “Fatty foods and cooked bones can be particularly dangerous for dogs, potentially causing digestive upset or more serious conditions like pancreatitis.” Dr Kass said, “There is also a risk of bones splintering or becoming lodged in the digestive tract.” “It was really scary, I thought he might have a bone stuck inside him,” Marina said. “I’m never going to feed him bones ever again.” Lucky’s story is a timely reminder to take extra care with leftovers this Easter, as not every pet might be as lucky as he was. While it might be tempting to share a treat, many human foods can pose serious risks to pets. Keeping food scraps out of reach and disposing of them safely can help prevent an unexpected trip to the vet.

Tomorrow is National Respect Your Cat Day… and Jeremy has a few ideas he wants to propose. At two years old, this former stray knows exactly what he wants: sunbeam access at all hours, a comfy perch for supervising his kingdom, and affection strictly on his terms. Jeremy is the perfect mix of independent and smoochy. He’ll flop onto his back, make biscuits in the air, and ask for pats… but will politely let you know when he’s had enough. He loooves a good brushing, enjoys playtime in short bursts (feather toys are his all-time favourite), and will thrive in a calm, adult-only home where he can truly relax and be his fabulous self. If you’re looking for a loyal (and very fluffy) companion, Jeremy might just be your guy. Come visit him at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today. lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 956000017405044 Source code: BR296075

Six-year-old Zoe loves her beach walks, but one outing took a sudden turn. While running along the sand, she unexpectedly went limp and was not able to bear weight on her left hind leg. Concerned, her mum brought her to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department, initially thinking it might be a soft tissue injury. However, further assessment and imaging revealed a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture, one of the most common knee injuries in dogs. The CCL, similar to the ACL in humans, is essential for keeping the knee stable. When it is completely ruptured, the shin bone slides forward in relation to the thigh bone, causing pain, limping and ongoing joint damage. To restore stability, Zoe underwent TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy) surgery. While it sounds complex, the concept is simple. Rather than repairing the torn ligament, the procedure changes the angle of the top of the shin bone so the knee no longer relies on the ligament for stability. During surgery, a curved cut is made in the top of the tibia, which is then rotated and secured with a metal plate. This stabilises the joint and helps reduce long-term damage. Recovery is generally very positive. Many dogs begin using the leg within a week and over the following weeks, strength and mobility gradually return. With the right care, most dogs are back to normal activity within a few months. If your dog is limping or reluctant to bear weight, it’s important to have them checked early. Prompt treatment can make a significant difference to their comfort and long-term joint health. Zoe is now on her way to recovery and can’t wait to be back to her beach walks and enjoying life without pain.

At just two months old, this Chihuahua–French Bulldog cross puppy, is already melting hearts with his tiny face and curious, wide eyes. But recently, this playful little pup experienced a common condition seen in flat-faced breeds, cherry eye. His dad first noticed something wasn’t right a few weeks ago. “It popped out and then went back in by itself,” he says. “Then it happened again a couple of days ago. We tried cleaning it with saline, but it kept coming back, so we brought him to Lort Smith Animal Hospital.” Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland of the third eyelid slips out of position, appearing as a red swelling in the corner of the eye closest to the nose. While it may not always seem urgent, it can lead to painful dryness and long-term complications if left untreated. “The third eyelid gland helps support and lubricate the eye, producing up to 50 per cent of the tear production,” Dr Kass says. “When it’s out of place, it can’t function properly. That’s when we start to see dryness, irritation, and an increased risk of infections like conjunctivitis.” Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs are particularly prone to the condition due to a weaker attachment of the gland, though it can also occur in breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Beagles. This little guy underwent surgery to gently tuck the gland back into place and secure it, allowing it to continue doing its important job. “The correct treatment is to reposition the gland, not remove it,” Dr Kass says. “If it’s removed, we create a much bigger problem, as the eye loses a significant portion of its tear production, which can lead to chronic dry eye and long-term damage.” While most procedures are successful, Dr Kass notes there is always a chance the gland can pop out again, particularly if it has been present for some time. “It’s important to keep an eye on the area and seek veterinary care as soon as you notice any issues,” she says. For now, this cute pup is recovering well, with his bright, expressive eyes back where they belong, ready to keep charming everyone he meets.

With World Puppy Day here, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the joy puppies bring into our lives, and the difference adopting one can make. Their cuddles and constant wiggles have a way of lifting our spirits, but it’s also a reminder that welcoming a puppy into your home is a big, but rewarding responsibility. Gromit is ready to be part of that journey. At 16 weeks old, this American Bulldog pup is bursting with charm, curiosity and just the right amount of mischief. Much like his famous namesake, he’s observant, loyal and always ready to spring into action, whether that’s a spirited game of tug-of-war or a wriggly cuddle with his favourite humans. His tail never seems to stop wagging, and his cheerful personality is enough to brighten even the greyest day. Like any young pup, Gromit is still learning about the world around him. He’ll thrive with a patient and dedicated family willing to guide him through puppy school and ongoing training, no outlandish contraptions required, just consistency, care and a sense of humour. With the right support, Gromit will grow into a loyal, well-mannered companion, your very own right-hand pup for life’s adventures. If you’re ready to take on the rewarding responsibility of raising a puppy, and wouldn’t mind a loyal sidekick by your side (cheese optional), Gromit could be the perfect match. Come and visit him at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre or submit an expression of interest today. lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 956000019400873 Source code: BR296075

For one-year-old miniature poodle Zeus, a normal day at home quickly took a frightening turn. After a long walk, Zeus was tired and resting on a kitchen chair. Usually cautious about heights, he jumped down onto the floorboards, but his leg slipped out to the side. He immediately cried out in pain and was unable to walk. His dad, Lee, rushed him Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. Zeus had dislocated his left hind hip, a painful injury that required urgent care. The team were able to carefully place the hip back into the socket, avoiding the need for surgery. Zeus is expected to make a full recovery at home, with strict crate rest for the next 10 days to give him the best chance of healing and reduce the risk of it happening again. Dr Rebecca says injuries like this can happen more easily than many people realise. “Some breeds, including Labradors and certain smaller or purebred dogs, can be more susceptible to hip dislocations,” she explains. “While smaller dogs can sometimes cope better because they don’t have as much weight on the joint, these injuries are still very painful and need prompt treatment,” She also notes that everyday household environments can play a big role in preventing injuries. “I’d always recommend, especially for smaller dogs, using small steps or ramps if they’re getting on and off beds or couches,” she says. “Even if they’re not meant to be on the furniture, they often find their way up, and jumping down can put them at risk,” “Slippery floors are another common issue,” Dr Rebecca adds. “If a dog lands awkwardly or their legs slide out from under them, that’s when we can see injuries like this occur,” Dr Rebecca emphasises that recognising the signs of injury early is critical. “You might notice limping, yelping, not wanting to stand, or not putting weight on a limb,” she says. “If something doesn’t seem right, it’s always best to have them checked as soon as possible. The sooner we treat it, the better the outcome, we don’t want it healing incorrectly.” For now, Zeus is resting up, with recovery focused on strict rest and careful rehabilitation, giving this energetic little dog the best chance to get back to his happy, active self.

Over the past few months, we’ve shared the stories of some incredible animals looking for homes. You may have seen their faces on our social media, followed their journeys, or cheered them on from afar. But despite the love and support online… some of them are still waiting. You might remember Sugar and Spice, the two deaf puppies found wandering the streets of northern Melbourne. Since we shared their story, Sugar has been adopted. But Spice remains at the shelter, patiently waiting for someone to choose her. Then there’s Buckley, the affectionate two-year-old “cat-dog” who loves following his people from room to room and being part of everything they do. Despite his big personality and love for human company, Buckley is still waiting for a home of his own after 194 days at the shelter. Brian is still waiting too. This gentle Staffordshire cross arrived at nearly 10 years old after living on the streets. Senior dogs like Brian are so often overlooked, even though they still have so much love and companionship to give. And finally, there’s Mochi. When we first introduced this tiny kitten, she had just arrived with a serious leg injury after a folding chair accidentally fell on her. After complications, the difficult decision was made to amputate her back leg. Today, six-month-old Mochi has recovered beautifully and lives life at full speed, her missing leg barely slowing her down. Yet she’s still waiting for a home. These animals have already captured hearts online. Now they just need someone to turn that love into a home. Visit them at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre or submit an expression of interest today. See our available pets here: lortsmith.com/adoptions/avai… Mochi | Microchip No: 956000019400352 Brian| Microchip No: 956000006104774 Spice | Microchip No: 956000017397731 Buckley | Microchip No: 956000017404566 Source code: BR296075

Meet Macc, a six-month-old Macquarie River turtle who recently visited Lort Smith Animal Hospital with a case of shell rot. Despite not feeling his best, Macc still had plenty of personality, he was a bit cheeky during his visit, trying to climb up Dr Nicole’s arm, and clearly keen to explore anything within reach. Unfortunately, this adventurous little turtle needed some medical attention. Shell rot is a bacterial or fungal infection that affects a turtle’s shell, often caused by poor water quality, injuries, or insufficient calcium intake. Inadequate UVB lighting and incorrect temperatures can also weaken a turtle’s immune system, making infections more likely. Macc’s treatment includes antibiotics and dry docking, which means he spends most of the day out of the water so his shell can stay clean and dry while it heals. Australian turtles are unlikely to eat outside of water, so Macc will return to water 2-3 times a day for his meals. For turtles, prevention often comes down to the right environment. Tanks should have high-quality filtration to limit build-up of waste products in the water, as poor water quality can damage the skin and external barrier, which can lead to infections. Turtles also need a warm, dry basking area with proper UVB lighting so the shell can dry properly and be treated effectively with topical antiseptics. A balanced diet is also important to support a strong immune system and healthy shell growth. While Gemma, Macc’s mum, already provides excellent care, she’ll also be monitoring the tank’s water quality closely to rule out any subtle environmental changes. With treatment underway and dedicated care at home, Macc is on the road to recovery.

A few months ago, we introduced you to Mochi, a tiny kitten who arrived at Lort Smith after being injured when a folding chair accidentally fell on her. She couldn’t move her left back leg and had significant swelling that initially raised concerns about a fracture. While the swelling was first treated as an abscess, Mochi sadly developed further complications with the leg. To give her the best chance at a happy, pain-free life, the difficult decision was made to amputate it. The good news is that Mochi has recovered beautifully and is now ready for adoption. Now six months old, Mochi is full of energy and curiosity. She zooms after toys, pounces with confidence and explores her world without hesitation, her missing leg doesn’t slow her down one bit. When playtime winds down, she happily transforms into a snuggly lap cat, curling up close and purring contentedly. This brave little cat is thriving and ready to find the loving home she deserves. Come visit her at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today. Microchip No: 956000019400352 Source code: BR296075 lortsmith.com/adoption/avail…

A day in the life of an emergency nurse looks different every shift, but it always starts with being ready for the unexpected. Today, one of our nurses, Ali, is caring for PJ, making sure she is comfortable and closely monitored. From triaging patients as they arrive, to assisting with procedures, monitoring recovery and supporting worried pet owners, our emergency nurses play a vital role in helping pets through some of their most critical moments. Our Emergency Department at Lort Smith North Melbourne is open 365 days a year, including public holidays, from 8am to 10pm. Find out more about our emergency vet care: lortsmith.com/need-help-now/

You can never underestimate the curiosity of a cat, and for three-year-old Love, that curiosity landed him at Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. Love’s mum, Nethmi, noticed something wasn’t right when he suddenly stopped eating. Normally a big fan of both his meals and treats, Love refused them and was becoming increasingly lethargic. “You know your cat,” Nethmi says. “He just wasn’t himself,” After finding pieces of plastic in his litterbox, she searched the apartment and found a chewed-up plastic plant that Love had gotten a hold of. Love was struggling to walk and had started vomiting when she rushed him to our hospital. Scans revealed that Love still had some of the plastic plant inside him and underwent emergency surgery to remove it. The procedure was successful and Love is now recovering well. Lort Smith veterinarian Dr Rebecca says while cases like Love’s are more commonly seen in dogs, cats can also get themselves into trouble. “We mostly see dogs eating plastic, but we do see it in cats as well,” Dr Rebecca says. “It’s important to be careful about the toys you give cats, especially the size of them. Make sure they’re getting good enrichment from other sources too, otherwise they can become a bit cheeky and start chewing on things they shouldn’t.” Love’s scare has been a wake-up call for Nethmi, who has since removed anything around the house that Love might be tempted to chew. “You’ve got to be really responsible about what they can play with and what they can get into,” she says. For now, Nethmi is simply relieved to have her beloved companion home. “I’m taking a few days off just so I can sit at home with him on my lap. He’s my lifeline, my soulmate. I just feel so much happier now that he’s okay.”

We are pleased to announce that Puppy Pre-School is back in North Melbourne for puppies like Winnie here. Due to popular demand, a new class is starting soon at our North Melbourne site. These sessions help puppies learn important life skills, build confidence, interact calmly with other dogs, and strengthen the special bond they share with their humans. Like human babies, puppies do a lot of learning in their early months. Early socialisation helps bring out the best in your puppy’s personality, supports healthy behaviour, and can prevent small issues from developing into bigger problems later in life. Spots are limited, so enrol now: lortsmith.com/dog-training/p… Location: 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne Time: 6pm Wednesday, starting 18th of March, over 5 weeks Class size: 4–6 puppies Ages: 16 weeks and under Our Campbellfield classes will also continue, with the next course starting Saturday, 28th of March at 10am.

Earlier this week we introduced you to Bonnie, a one-year-old Boxer cross whose world changed through no fault of her own. She was deeply loved, but when an elderly parent had to move into the family home, her owners were faced with an impossible decision. Today something special happened with your help. Bonnie was adopted! David saw her post on social media on and immediately fell in love with her gentle doe eyes in her photos and her shaking paws in the videos. David says Bonnie has the perfect personality for his family and it was love at first sight. Thank you David and everyone for loving our Bonnie.

This Sunday, 8 March, marks International Women’s Day. This year’s theme, “Balance the Scales,” calls for equal rights and equal justice for women everywhere. For Lort Smith, the day carries special meaning. Our organisation was founded by Louisa Lort Smith and a special group of women whose determination and leadership established one of Victoria’s most enduring animal welfare organisations at a time when women faced significant legal, economic and social barriers. As we celebrate 90 years of compassionate care for animals and the people who love them, we reflect on our founder’s resilience and vision. Working during the Great Depression and in a male-dominated environment, she led the way in building something truly special. Because of her vision and persistence, hundreds of thousands, if not more than a million, animals and people have received care and support through Lort Smith. This International Women’s Day, we honour her legacy and affirm our support for a more equal and just future for women everywhere. Pictured here are members of our Hospital Committee from the mid-1930; Miss Jean Johnstone, Mrs Walsoe, Miss Doris Moffat, Mrs C. L. Smith, Lady Lyle, Miss Nance Armstrong and Miss Marion Montgomery.

Bonnie is a one-year-old Boxer cross whose world changed through no fault of her own. She was deeply loved, but when an elderly parent had to move into the family home, her owners were faced with an impossible decision. With mobility issues making it unsafe to have an energetic young dog around, they made the heartbreaking choice to surrender her so she could find a new family able to give her the life and love she deserves. Despite the upheaval, Bonnie remains an incredibly gentle and affectionate girl. She adores people and is happiest when she is close to them, soaking up attention and rolling over for belly rubs. She loves a good squeaky toy and running around to let off some energy before coming back in for more cuddles. Bonnie will do best with a patient, consistent family who can help her build confidence and develop her manners through positive training. She could happily share her home with another dog, ideally of a similar size, who can show her the ropes. Due to her enthusiastic nature, she’s best suited to an adult-only home while she continues learning. If you’re looking for a sweet young dog who will fill your home with affection, fun, and loyal companionship, Bonnie could be the perfect match. Come and visit her at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre or submit an expression of interest today. lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 953010006705295 Source code: BR296075

Five-year-old Chihuahua Sarah may be tiny, but she is one brave little pup. When Danielle, Sarah’s mum, first noticed a change in Sarah’s eye, it didn’t seem dramatic. It wasn’t bulging, it looked like it could have been a scratch. But after seeing a specialist, Sarah was diagnosed with primary glaucoma in her right eye. Sarah was started on medication right away, but the pressure in her right eye continued to rise. Over a few days, it became larger and cloudier. When her behaviour changed and she stopped eating, Danielle brought her into Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. The pressure had increased again, and the difficult decision was made to remove her right eye to relieve her pain. “Sarah was still acting like herself at first. There was no obvious sign she was in pain,” Danielle said, “I wish I’d known that a red or slightly cloudy eye can be the only early warning, and that waiting for behaviour changes may mean waiting too long.” Glaucoma is painful and can progress rapidly. Dogs may show subtle signs like a red or watery eye, cloudiness or a bluish tinge to the cornea, squinting or rubbing at their face. As pressure rises, the eye can become visibly swollen or bulging. Some dogs become lethargic, lose their appetite, or seem quieter than usual. Without urgent treatment, blindness can occur very quickly. “I never imagined something that looked so minor could become so serious so quickly,” Danielle said. Time is a critical factor for treating glaucoma, even subtle changes in your pet’s eyes deserve urgent attention. Regular checks of your pet’s eye pressure during vet visits can help find any eye issues early.

In the space of just one hour, Ruby, a three-year-old German Shepherd mix, went from happily at home to facing a life-threatening emergency. Her dad, Bradley, had stepped out, believing his son was home with her. Unbeknownst to each other, they had both gone out. A pharmacy bag containing calcitriol (vitamin D3) tablets had been sitting on the kitchen counter. When Bradley returned, he was met with a scene of destruction, the bag torn apart and the medication box shredded and scattered across the house. Ruby had eaten approximately 36 tablets. Vitamin D toxicity can be extremely dangerous for dogs, with the potential to cause acute kidney injury. Fearing the worst, Bradley rushed Ruby to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. Ruby spent a day in hospital on intravenous fluid therapy. Thankfully, her kidney values remained within the normal range, and she was able to return home the following day. “She’s a very smart and cunning dog,” Bradley said. “She’s already back to her normal cheeky self.” Her experience is a reminder of how quickly accidents can happen at home, always store medications safely and out of reach, even when they seem secure.