JCU Vet

27/04/2025

At JCUVet, we see every day the incredible dedication and compassion our veterinary team brings to their work, but we also see the emotional toll it can take.

A number of our cases, whether it’s our Emergency and Critical care, Referral and Specialist services or General Practice are often complex and heartbreaking, and behind every patient is a team carrying not just medical expertise, but immense compassion and often, an invisible burden.

This article sheds important light on the mental health crisis facing veterinarians across the world. It’s a reality we know all too well.

We are so proud of our team, and we are committed to supporting them and to raising awareness about the challenges they face.

Please take a moment to read and, most importantly, remember to show kindness and understanding to the veterinary professionals who care so deeply for every animal and family they meet.

https://7news.com.au/news/world-vet-day-the-mental-health-crisis-continuing-to-face-veterinarians-as-sophies-legacy-works-to-bring-su***de-rate-down-c-18463152?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR5wnbZanZouyQIMd2vAsCKSt8vy3H3FjRm1X6P-XagUZ0JmfBtBtQC7CvpG7A_aem_LQWnGp9pErUsbWRhwwP3eg

‘We don’t want to deter young people from getting into the field, we want them to follow that dream.’

17/04/2025

A reminder about stray animal management this long weekend.

We know the holiday period often brings an increase in lost pets. While JCUVet is not responsible for managing strays, we do our best to assist in cases where we can.

Please understand that whether a stray remains in our care or another clinic, there are numerous costs involved including feeding, walking, monitoring, and general care that all require time and resources. It also adds stress to the animals already experiencing unfamiliar environments.

Here’s what to do if you find a stray this Easter to help reduce that:

1. Secure the Animal – Keep it safe, calm, and separate from your own pets.

2. Search for the Owner – Knock on doors nearby (if safe) and post in local groups like Townsville Lost and Found Pets.

3. Contact Council – Call Townsville City Council on 13 48 10. Their Animal Care Centre is open most days from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM, excluding public holidays or if the animals is healthy keep it with you until owners are found or council can collect.

4. If Injured – Call us on 4781 3600 before bringing the animal in.

We are able to microchip however council has access to all tag information and we are unable to give out microchip information regarding the owners without their consent.

We appreciate your support and understanding.
Let’s all do our part to keep pets safe this Easter.

17/04/2025

We’re here if you need us this Easter!

JCUVet Emergency and Critical care is open right through the Easter break for any pet emergencies.

If your pet needs urgent care, call us on 4781 3600—our emergency team is here 24/7.

Wishing you and your pets a safe and happy Easter!

10/04/2025

Welcome home Dakota!

Yesterday, we had the privilege of caring for Dakota, a brave dog who had been missing for 7 days!

Thanks to the power of the Facebook community and some incredibly kind-hearted members of the public, Dakota was safely found and brought to our ECC team at JCUVet.

She is now back home with her very relieved and grateful family.

04/04/2025

Congratulations, Mojo!

Today we’re celebrating Mojo, who has just completed his final chemotherapy treatment with our Internal Medicine Referral Team.

Mojo was referred to us with multiple mast cell tumours, one of the most common types of skin tumours in dogs. These tumours can sometimes grow slowly and remain benign, but others can behave unpredictably, spreading to other parts of the body.

Mojo’s tumours were classified as medium grade, and to help reduce the risk of recurrence, he underwent a 6-dose course of chemotherapy. We’re happy to report he handled his treatment extremely well, experiencing only minimal side effects throughout his journey.

Throughout his visits, Mojo made himself right at home, soaking up cuddles, treats, and attention from our team.

We’re so proud of his progress and resilience.
Well done, Mojo!

03/04/2025

Where Learning Meets Innovation – Veterinary Care with Purpose

We’ve recently gained some new followers—so we wanted to take a moment to reintroduce ourselves.

Here’s a little about who we are, what we do, and why it matters.

At JCUVet, we’re proud to be a leading veterinary teaching hospital committed to advancing veterinary care and professional education.

As the clinical teaching facility for James Cook University, we provide advanced medical services for animals while training final-year veterinary science students, mentoring qualified veterinarians pursuing professional Memberships, and supporting the wider veterinary community through CPD events and workshops.

JCUVet is a fully functional referral hospital, with experienced clinicians and specialists working alongside your chosen general practice veterinarian to ensure every patient receives seamless, high-quality care.

Our state-of-the-art facility, combined with a dedicated team of highly skilled veterinarians and nurses, allows us to deliver exceptional care at every stage of your pet’s health journey.
Operating 24/7, JCUVet offers a wide-range of services under one roof, ensuring uninterrupted access to expert care whenever it’s needed most.

We also believe in transparency and clear communication, offering open discussions around treatment plans and financial options—giving you peace of mind throughout your pet’s care.

We are proud to be the only veterinary facility in Townsville with a board-certified Critical Care Specialist, providing an elevated level of expertise during the most urgent and complex situations.

By choosing JCUVet, you're not only accessing expert veterinary services—you’re supporting the next generation of veterinary professionals and contributing to the advancement of animal health across Australia.

www.jcuvet.com

29/03/2025

CHARLIE’S HOME!

After 12 months missing, Charlie the cat has been miraculously reunited with her family — almost exactly one year to the day she disappeared!

Charlie went missing from River Park Drive, Annandale on March 25th, 2024. Her heartbroken family searched tirelessly, never giving up hope.

On March 26th, 2025, a member of the public brought in a stray cat who was extremely underweight, with her front leg caught through her collar. It had been rubbing under her arm, causing a painful laceration. Under it all… was Charlie.

Thanks to her microchip, we were able to contact her very surprised (and very emotional!) owners, who were overjoyed to be reunited with their brave little girl after a whole year apart.

Charlie is now safe, receiving care, and back where she belongs.

Welcome home, Charlie. You’re one tough little cat.

19/03/2025

We’re Open !

JCUVet remains open for all veterinary services. If you’re on the roads, please drive safely!

If you need to reschedule your appointment, just give us a call, and our team will be happy to assist.

📞 07 4781 3600

Stay safe and take care! 🐾

15/03/2025

Meet Dr. Max Ling!

Dr. Max Ling recently joined our team after graduating from James Cook University in 2024 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. With a strong interest in surgery and emergency medicine, he’s passionate about delivering high-quality patient care and educating both clients and students. Dedicated to continuous learning, Max is always looking for ways to grow and improve in his field.

Not only is JCUVet a teaching hospital for veterinary students, but we are also leaders in education and training for qualified vets. Our team supports veterinarians in achieving memberships in their chosen fields and provides CPD events for our referring vets, helping them stay ahead of the latest advancements in veterinary medicine.

By choosing JCUVet, you’re ensuring the highest standard of care for your pet while supporting the future of veterinary medicine like Max through education, specialist training, and continuous innovation.

Outside of work, Max is a gym enthusiast and a golf lover, balancing his time between lifting weights and perfecting his swing. 🏋️‍♂️⛳

We’re thrilled to have him on board! 🐾

06/03/2025

Meet Our New Animal Nursing Assistants!

We’re excited to introduce our newest team members at JCUVet—our Animal Nursing Assistants (ANAs)!

Emily, Sevasti, Bre, Alexandria, and Brigitte have just started their journey in the veterinary industry and will be with us for the next 12 months, rotating through surgery, reception, general practice, and inpatient care. During this time, they’ll also be completing their Certificate II in Animal Care, gaining hands-on experience while working alongside our skilled vets, nurses, and students.

JCUVet isn’t just a teaching hospital for veterinary students and qualified veterinarians —it’s also a place where passionate individuals can begin their careers in veterinary nursing through our ANA traineeship program. We’re committed to training the next generation of veterinary professionals, and we can’t wait to watch our ANAs grow!

Be sure to say hi and give them a warm welcome!

04/03/2025

A Heartfelt Thank You!

Craig & Jessica rushed their pup, Steve, to us in a critical state. Thanks to our team’s quick action and care, he’s now recovering at home!

We're here 24/7 for your pets, with gap-only payments and 10% discounts for JCU Staff & Students, Townsville University Hospital Staff, Defence, DVA & Seniors.

🏥

01/03/2025

Injured Stray Cat Found – Help Us Find the Owner

This stray cat was brought into JCUVet with injuries and has received emergency care. The cat is currently in a stable condition. However, it is important that we locate the owner as soon as possible. The cat was found In aitkenvale.

Unfortunately, the microchip contact details are disconnected. If this is your cat or you recognize them, please contact us at 07 4781 6300.

Thank you for your help in reuniting this cat with its owner!

24/02/2025

Raisin’ Trouble: This Poodle’s Sneaky Snack Was a No-Go!

This stylish poodle’s day took a turn for the worse after sneaking some raisin scones—unfortunately, raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause sudden kidney failure. Thankfully, their owners acted fast, and we were able to step in with urgent care.

Even the best kept pets can have “uh-oh” moments—if your pet snacks on something they shouldn’t, don’t wait, seek help immediately!

19/02/2025

Melioidosis & Your Pets: What You Need to Know

Melioidosis is a serious bacterial infection found in soil and water, especially during the wet season. It can be life-threatening for both humans and animals, with pets at risk if they come into contact with contaminated environments.

Early detection is crucial! Watch for these signs:

⚠️ Signs & Symptoms:

- Fever
- Lethargy & weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Skin sores or abscesses
- Neurological symptoms (in severe cases)

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, contact your regular vet immediately. Melioidosis can progress rapidly, so early treatment is essential.

💡 Prevention Tips:

✔️ Keep pets away from muddy or stagnant water.
✔️ Wash their paws after outdoor play.
✔️ Avoid letting them dig in wet soil.

JCU Vet Emergency & Critical Care is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

19/02/2025

Zuri, one of our beloved referral regulars, soaking up all the love from nurse Meg!

13/02/2025

Valentine’s Day Pet Safety Alert!

Love is in the air, and so are chocolates and beautiful flower bouquets! While they make the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts, they can be dangerous for our little paw-lentines.

🚫 Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats, even in small amounts. Keep those sweet treats out of reach!

🚫 Lilies – Highly toxic to cats! Even a small nibble or contact with pollen can cause severe kidney failure.

This Valentine’s Day, show your pets love by keeping harmful gifts out of their paws’ reach.

12/02/2025

A huge THANK YOU!

We would like to take a moment to thank our incredible JCUVet team! Over the past few weeks during recent weather events, through long hours and unexpected challenges, you have all stepped up to ensure the highest level of care for our patients. Whether it was treating critical cases, supporting each other through the extra workload, or showing compassion to pet owners, your dedication has been truly inspiring.

To those who stayed back late, covered extra shifts, or navigated difficult conditions just to get here—your hard work has not gone unnoticed.

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our patients' families for trusting us with your beloved pets during this time. Your patience and support mean the world to us.

To the entire Townsville community—thank you for your understanding and support as we not only cared for our patients but also helped manage strays and wildlife, reaching capacity while continuing to assist wherever we could. The safety of our staff and patients is always our top priority, and your patience during times like this allows us to keep providing the best possible care.

We appreciate you all! ❤️🐾

11/02/2025

A Happy ‘Tail’ for Wick! 🐶❤️

Meet Wick Harrison, a brave 9-month-old pup who had quite the unexpected journey at our JCUVet Emergency and Critical Care.

Wick came to us on Friday night showing signs of severe abdominal pain, lethargy, and fever. An X-ray revealed a mass in his small intestine, and his family braced for the possibility of removing something he had swallowed—maybe a plug, a piece of an irrigation system, or a small rock (as Wick loves to explore the world with his mouth!).

But what Dr May found was unexpected—a rare benign tumor in his small intestinal wall, about the size of a matchbox. After a delicate surgery to remove 8cm of intestine and two nights under our care, Wick made a fantastic recovery.

We’re thrilled to share that Wick is now home, eating, playing, and back to being his happy puppy self! His family is beyond grateful for the care he received, and we’re so glad we could help give him the best chance at a long and happy life.

A huge thank you to Wick’s wonderful family for allowing us to share his story. We love seeing our furry patients thrive!

If you ever find yourself in need of expert emergency care, JCUVet is open 24/7 365 Days a week . 💙🐾