Lort Smith

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Emergency Hospital | Vet Clinic
24 Villiers St, North Melbourne VIC 3051*
03 9328 3021

Vet Clinic | Adoption Centre | Dog Park
25-35 Berwick Rd, Campbellfield 3061
03 9287 6426

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ay block you from posting to the Lort Smith page. While we moderate this site, we do hope to create a community with you that is built on respect with a culture of self-moderation. Please keep your posts nice. Do not include content, images or links to things which could be considered obscene, offensive, defamatory, threatening, harassing, overtly sexual, discriminatory or hateful to another person or organisation - including us, our partners, our employees, competitors and other people or organisations. We welcome your feedback, both positive and negative, and will endeavour to respond to your comments as soon as we can. While we support lively, open discussion, we reserve the right at our discretion to delete any comments that don’t comply with our rules or which we otherwise think are inappropriate and (if required) block users.

Three-year-old, Mark, gave his family a frightening reminder that the danger of lily toxicity doesn’t disappear once Eas...
24/06/2026

Three-year-old, Mark, gave his family a frightening reminder that the danger of lily toxicity doesn’t disappear once Easter is over.
Wanting to surprise his wife with some flowers, Mark’s dad, Nick, brought home a beautiful bouquet of lilies, completely unaware that it is one of the most toxic plants for cats.
“A couple days later, I found Mark chewing on the flowers and covered in pollen,” Nick says. “After looking up lilies and seeing how toxic they are to cats, we rushed him to Lort Smith.”
Mark was immediately started on intravenous fluids and spent two days in hospital receiving treatment and close monitoring. Thankfully, his quick-thinking family acted fast, giving the cheeky feline the best possible chance of recovery.
To the immense relief of his family, Mark made a full recovery and is now back home with his twin brother Justin, happy, healthy and causing mischief once again.
“We definitely know now not to have lilies around,” Nick says. “We’re also looking into cat-safe flowers so this doesn’t happen again.”
Mark’s story is an important reminder that lilies are a danger to cats all year round, not just during Easter. Even a tiny amount can be fatal. The entire plant, including the petals, leaves, stamen and even pollen, is highly toxic.
Please check your homes and bouquets carefully and make sure they are free from lilies. Keeping these flowers out of reach isn’t enough, the safest option is to avoid bringing them into homes with cats altogether.

Seven-month-old Golden Retriever, Violet, like many puppies her age, is curious, playful and eager to investigate anythi...
23/06/2026

Seven-month-old Golden Retriever, Violet, like many puppies her age, is curious, playful and eager to investigate anything she can get her paws on. On this particular day, Violet decided an abandoned sock looked like the perfect snack.
Violet’s mum, Carly, believes the sock snack came courtesy of her young son, who had taken off his shoes and left his socks on the floor.
“She came to me with the sock in her mouth, and when I pulled it out, only part of the sock was there,” says Carly.
Knowing the potential dangers, Carly wasted no time rushing her to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department.
“I knew that it could potentially cause a blockage and getting it out sooner rather than later was the best option,” she says.
Violet was assessed and treated before the foreign object could cause any serious issues.
According to Carly, Violet has always had a fondness for soft materials.
“She seems to love material things,” she says. “She often carries around her blanket, so it’s not uncommon for her to pick up socks. We’re normally pretty diligent about making sure socks and those sorts of items are put away, but it’s hard to control the small people in the house.”
Thankfully, Violet made a quick recovery and is now back to her happy, playful self.
“She’s perfect now,” says Carly. “She was a little bit sorry for herself at first and had a good snooze after coming home. Now she’s back to normal and probably has no regrets, unfortunately.”
Dr Jess says curious young dogs can swallow dangerous objects in a matter of seconds.
“Especially when you have a young dog who is very food motivated and very excited, you really need to have your wits about you and make sure they don't have access to things they shouldn't,” says Dr Jess. “That includes teaching children about what could be a potential hazard or a risk. Getting kids involved in keeping dogs safe is really important too. It's not just a parental responsibility, it's a whole family responsibility to keep our dogs safe.”

Fella got the second chance he deserved because people like you stepped in to help. But there are still many more pets w...
22/06/2026

Fella got the second chance he deserved because people like you stepped in to help. But there are still many more pets waiting for lifesaving care, and with no ongoing government funding, we rely on the generosity of our community to be there when they need us most.
Please help more pets in need, just like Fella. Donate to our Winter Appeal and help even more pets get the care, treatment and second chances they deserve.
bit.ly/HelppetslikeFella
After we shared Fella’s inspirational story last week, where he was abandoned for being “defective”, we are delighted to announce that not only was Fella the face of our 2026 Winter Appeal, but he has now been adopted!
As we told you last week, Fella needed complex surgery because of a severe cleft palate that made something as simple as eating a dangerous challenge.
“I saw him and immediately thought, ‘He is my little soul dog,’” Amanda said. “It was absolutely love at first sight.”
And Fella wasn’t the only one who fell in love. Amanda’s nine-year-old Border Collie, Betty, quickly decided the newcomer was her new best friend.
“As soon as Betty and Fella got to go to the off-leash park together, they bonded straight away. They are now absolute besties.”
The sweet youngster has settled into family life as though he’s always belonged.
“It’s like he’s always been here,” Amanda said. “He’s just so relaxed and comfortable already. He was meant to be here.”
Described by his new mum as quirky and endlessly affectionate, Fella has already stolen everyone’s hearts.
“I love his long giraffe legs. He’s like a newborn horse. His legs just flap around when he wants to play.”
And when playtime is over, the little whippet knows exactly where he wants to be.
“He likes to get under the blankets and cuddle up to you like a little hot water bottle.”
After hearing about Fella’s difficult start to life, Amanda was even more determined to give him the chance he deserved.
“He gets a chance at the life he deserves, and I get the chance to help someone as lovely as Fella.”
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Fella received the specialist surgery and care he needed to thrive. With no ongoing government funding, every step of Fella’s journey was made possible by people who believe pets like him deserve a second chance.
Today, this beautiful boy is healthy, happy and adored. Please help more pets like Fella enjoy the life they deserve.

19/06/2026

Meet Cuddles and Bixon, the adorable duo here to steal your heart, and your snacks! 😂 These two don’t believe in sharing when it comes to treats, but their shenanigans are guaranteed to keep you laughing.
Come visit them at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today.
Microchip No: 956000019713938 & 956000019747721
Source code: BR296075
https://lortsmith.com/adoption/available-for-adoption/cuddles-bixon/

Two-year-old Cavoodle, Moon, has never been one to pass up a snack. According to his mum, Elyza, he’ll eat just about an...
18/06/2026

Two-year-old Cavoodle, Moon, has never been one to pass up a snack. According to his mum, Elyza, he’ll eat just about anything he can get his paws on, whether it’s at home or something he’s found while out and about.
Elyza had no idea just how serious his latest discovery had become until Moon suddenly stopped eating and began acting differently. Over the course of a week, Moon became increasingly unwell, eating only tiny amounts when absolutely necessary. He stopped drinking, started vomiting bile, became lethargic and lost interest in playing.
“He just wasn’t normal Moon anymore,” says Elyza.
Concerned, Elyza took Moon to several veterinary clinics, but despite multiple visits, no one could determine what was wrong. He was sent home with anti-nausea medication, but his condition continued to deteriorate.
“I had a bad feeling while I was at work,” she says, “When I got home, I found him lying on the floor and not moving. I rushed him straight to Lort Smith.”
During his examination, the team identified an obstruction and Moon was taken into surgery that same night. The team discovered hair, rubber and sharp pieces of plastic causing a blockage in his digestive tract.
Because all of Moon’s toys at home were intact, his family believe the materials had most likely been picked up while out walking, highlighting how easily dogs can ingest dangerous objects they encounter at parks or on footpaths.
Moon spent two days in ICU before finally returning home.
Thankfully, Moon has made an excellent recovery and is back to following his family around and enjoying his food again, although he’s less impressed with having to wear a cone.
“He hates his cone, but he’s all good now,” says Elyza, “I’m just so happy he’s eating again. He has a very ugly haircut though, so he can’t go outside until we fix that. His friends will laugh at him.”
Moon’s story is an important reminder that dogs can pick up dangerous objects surprisingly quickly while out on walks or visiting parks. Pieces of plastic, rubber and other discarded items can all pose serious risks if swallowed, making early veterinary attention essential when pets start showing signs that something isn’t right.

One-year-old German Shepherd, Lucky, is hoping her name proves true as she searches for a family to call her own. After ...
17/06/2026

One-year-old German Shepherd, Lucky, is hoping her name proves true as she searches for a family to call her own. After coming into our care when her elderly owner was no longer able to look after her, this beautiful girl is ready for a fresh start and the chance to make some new memories.
Like many young shepherds, Lucky is clever, energetic and loves being involved in whatever her people are doing. Whether she's chasing a ball, soaking up a good scratch or rolling over for belly rubs, Lucky brings enthusiasm and affection to everything she does.
Lucky is looking for a home with a large, secure yard and a family who understands the needs of this intelligent breed. She will benefit from ongoing training and patient guidance as she continues working on her manners around other dogs.
Though life has taken an unexpected turn, Lucky has been lucky enough to start fresh, and now she's hoping to get lucky one more time by finding a family who will love her for the rest of her days. Come and visit her at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today.
Microchip No: 956000018523111
Source code: BR296075
https://lortsmith.com/adoption/available-for-adoption/lucky/

When Pearl's mum, Angela, brought her beloved cat to Lort Smith Animal Hospital for a routine vaccination, she never exp...
16/06/2026

When Pearl's mum, Angela, brought her beloved cat to Lort Smith Animal Hospital for a routine vaccination, she never expected the appointment would turn into a rescue mission.
Before Pearl's check-up could begin, the curious cat managed to escape from her carrier and disappear into the engine bay of a staff member’s car parked outside.
Thankfully, Pearl was safely coaxed out and given a thorough examination. Apart from causing a few anxious moments, she was completely unharmed and able to receive her vaccination before heading home.
Pearl's escape serves as a timely reminder for drivers to check their cars before starting their engines this winter.
"Cats have a higher baseline body temperature than humans and look for residual heat from recently driven cars to stay warm and conserve energy. The engine bay provides a dark, enclosed space where they feel safe from predators or bad weather." says Dr Jess.
Dr Jess recommends taking a few extra moments before starting the car and knocking on the bonnet, sounding the horn and checking around the tyres.
"If a cat is trapped in your car engine, do not start the vehicle," says Dr Jess, "Turn the ignition off, open the bonnet and attempt to lure the cat out with strong-smelling food, such as tuna, and a calm voice. If the cat is stuck or unresponsive, contact emergency services or a mechanic to remove the cat safely."

Looking at dainty little Fella today, you'd never guess he was once surrendered for being “defective.”This endlessly aff...
15/06/2026

Looking at dainty little Fella today, you'd never guess he was once surrendered for being “defective.”
This endlessly affectionate young whippet was born with a severe cleft palate, an 8cm hole along the inside roof of his snout.
Because of that gap, food and water could pass into his nasal passages, or even into his lungs.
Every mouthful could have made this beautiful young dog choke, or gag, or struggle to breathe. Imagine how that must have felt. If you’d like to help pets like Fella, please consider donating to our winter tax appeal.
Together, we can ensure pets like Fella are seen for what they truly are. Trusting and loving forever companions.
Because a medical condition doesn’t make an animal defective, and it doesn’t make Fella any less deserving of help.
Cleft palate surgery is complex. Fella's repair required a highly experienced surgeon, two hours in theatre, and weeks of foster care in a loving home environment before he could begin to heal.
Lort Smith receives no ongoing government funding to keep our animal hospitals and shelter running. Every cent of Fella's care came from kind-hearted people who care about animals’ lives.
With patience, gentle care and a lot of love, this little dog who first arrived at Lort Smith frightened and lost, began to feel safe again.
We’re happy to tell you that after a long and intensive recovery, Fella is now a happy chappy, full of love, light and ready to for a fresh start with those who love him.
Please help more pets in need, just like Fella.
bit.ly/HelppetslikeFella

Lort Smith believes no person or pet should be left without the care and support they need.As part of our ongoing advoca...
12/06/2026

Lort Smith believes no person or pet should be left without the care and support they need.

As part of our ongoing advocacy work, we're seeking feedback from animal lovers to help shape future campaigns and initiatives that support people and pets in need.

With your help, we can create a better future for people and pets.
Our quick six question survey can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/4uwbigK

Address

24 Villiers Street
Melbourne, VIC
3051

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 10pm
Tuesday 8am - 10pm
Wednesday 8am - 10pm
Thursday 8am - 10pm
Friday 8am - 10pm
Saturday 8am - 10pm
Sunday 8am - 10pm

Telephone

+61393283021

Website

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