Which Vets are Recommended for Australian Cattle Dogs in NYC?

Due to their short legs and relatively small size, Australian Cattle Dogs are a popular and wise choice for NYC residents. These dogs are extremely friendly, great with kids, and don’t mind indoor apartment life as long as they get out once a day.

But these dogs are predisposed to some ailments that might leave you wondering if a specialized veterinarian is necessary. Here are some of the most recommended vets in NYC that know and understand Australian Cattle Dogs well.

Understanding Your Australian Cattle Dog

Whether you already have an Australian Cattle Dog or are planning on getting one as a resident of New York City, it’s important to know what these dogs are like, their preferences, and the common illnesses they are prone to.

Temperament

Your Australian Cattle Dog is a high-energy dog that loves to run across wide open spaces. They are great at playing with kids, and need to go for regular walks to expend their energy. If at all possible, create a routine where you take your dog to one of the multiple no-leash dog parks in NYC so that they can run free.

Because of their high energy, these dogs tend to be more accident-prone. They have short legs, but love to run fast. This might cause them to trip and hurt their limbs, or misjudge dips or bumps, causing them to stumble and injure themselves.

Preferences

Australian Cattle Dogs prefer warm weather, but if it’s cool, they make up for it by eating a little extra and exercising more. You’ll also find that they like being outdoors, but this doesn’t mean you can’t keep one in your apartment. Just be sure to walk them at least once every day.

Common Ailments

These dogs seem to be predisposed to certain ailments. Although these are not always found in every dog, it’s best to look out for the following:

●      Hip dysplasia

●      Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

●      Deafness (congenital hereditary deafness)

●      Elbow dysplasia

●      Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)

●      Primary lens luxation

●      Cataracts

Now that we have a good idea of what illnesses or conditions your dog might develop, let’s look at four of the most recommended veterinarians found in NYC who can assist.

1.   BluePearl Pet Hospital – Midtown

The team of vets at BluePearl Pet Hospital in Midtown specialize in orthopaedic treatment and diagnosis. Their experts will help you identify bone or hip issues, and either prevent further deterioration or treat them as best they can. If your ACD happens to hurt themselves on a walk or a park visit, BluePearl Pet Hospital also has an excellent and accessible emergency service that’s open 24 hours every day.

2.   The Animal Medical Center (AMC)

The Animal Medical Center has a reputation for tracking genetic and breed-related diseases in dogs of many types. They will understand your Australian Cattle Dog well enough to treat common ailments as well as injuries sustained from adventurous outings.

3.   Heart of Chelsea Veterinary Group

Heart of Chelsea has an empathetic team of animal-loving veterinarians who are passionate about dogs. They understand the ACD and can suggest treatments for eye problems, bone weaknesses, and skin conditions. They also specialize in preventative care, and will help you to prevent predisposed conditions in your dog as best they can.

4.   Bond Vet – Multiple Locations

Bond Vet is a veterinarian franchise that can be found in NYC and surrounding areas. There are multiple branches, so find the nearest one to you and pay them a yearly visit. They are known for their tech-savvy approach to pet diagnosis and treatment, and will advise you on how to prevent, care for, and treat your ACD.

Tips on Vet Visits with an Australian Cattle Dog

When visiting your vet with an ACD, always remember the following:

-       Keep them on a leash: Australian Cattle Dogs are highly energetic. Keep them on a leash to make sure they don’t get overly excited when encountering other animals at the vet.

-       Make sure your insurance is up to date: Check with your NYC pet insurance holder what conditions are covered for your ACD. If you find holes in your cover, consider updating it so that it’s more comprehensive.

-       Bring treats: It’s important to reward your dog for being well-behaved at the vet. Make sure they get some positive reinforcement so that they don’t totally hate going to the vet.

-       Visit once a year: It’s a good idea to visit your vet once a year at least. This helps you to spot issues early on and will also help you and your vet prevent problems before they arise. 

Wrapping Up

Choosing an Australian Cattle Dog as your next companion is a great choice. They are superbly loyal dogs that will fit right in with your family. Give them enough exercise and train them well, and you’ll be rewarded with a dog that loves you unconditionally for as long as they live.