Whether you’ve just brought home a puppy in Craigieburn or you’ve had the same old cat in Northcote for 15 years, a good local vet is one of the most important people in your pet’s life. Here’s how to choose a vet in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, plus what to know about council registration, groomers and boarding.
Check the vet is registered
Every vet practising in Victoria has to be registered with the Veterinary Practitioners Registration Board of Victoria, and you can search the board’s public register by name. Some vets hold specialist registration in areas like surgery, dermatology or internal medicine. Your regular vet will usually refer you to a specialist if your pet needs one.
Find a clinic that suits you and your pet
Things worth thinking about when you choose a clinic:
- Location and hours. A clinic close to home makes regular check-ups easier, and evening or Saturday appointments help if you work.
- Experience with your type of pet. Most clinics see dogs and cats, but if you have rabbits, birds, reptiles or pocket pets, look for a vet with experience in them.
- How they communicate. A good vet explains your options and costs, and doesn’t rush you.
- Facilities. Ask whether they do X-rays, ultrasound, dentals and surgery in-house, or refer them out.
Know where to go after hours
Many local clinics close in the evening and on Sundays. Find out now where your nearest after-hours emergency vet is, and save the number in your phone. In an emergency, call ahead so the team can prepare for you.
Talk about costs early
Vet care isn’t covered by Medicare, so bills can add up. Ask for an estimate before procedures, and ask whether the clinic offers payment plans or a wellness plan that spreads the cost of vaccinations and check-ups across the year. If you’re thinking about pet insurance, read what’s covered and the waiting periods carefully, as most policies won’t cover conditions your pet already has.
Register your pet with council
In Victoria, dogs and cats must be registered with your local council from three months of age, and they must be microchipped before they’re registered for the first time. Registration renews each year on 10 April. Councils across the north, including Whittlesea, Hume, Darebin, Merri-bek, Banyule and Nillumbik, offer reduced fees for desexed animals and some concession card holders. Check your council’s website for its rules, including any cat curfew or dog off-leash areas.
Groomers, walkers and boarding
For groomers, dog walkers, pet sitters and boarding kennels, ask:
- Do you hold public liability insurance?
- Which vaccinations do you need my pet to have?
- How many animals do you look after at once?
- What happens if my pet gets sick or injured while in your care?
- Can I see where my pet will stay?
Mobile groomers who come to your door can be a good option for anxious or older pets.
Find vets and pet services near you
Local Business Near Me lists vets and pet services across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, from clinics to groomers, trainers and pet supplies. Pick your suburb, compare local businesses and call them directly. It’s free to use and there’s no middleman taking a cut.
