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Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH) Dandenong
36 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong, VIC 3175
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1300 385 874
4.2 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(434 reviews)

My dog, Luna, was admitted to this hospital with pancreatitis. But before it was diagnosed, she underwent numerous tests and scans. She had to stay in the hospital because she...

My dog, Luna, was admitted to this hospital with pancreatitis. But before it was diagnosed, she underwent numerous tests and scans. She had to stay in the hospital because she was vomiting even water and wouldn't eat. She had a feeding tube in her nose and an IV in her paw. My husband and I visited Luna every day and took her for short walks. I was deeply distressed, crying, and unable to sleep. Anyone with a beloved pet knows the fear, helplessness, and pain for their child. The care and support were fantastic. I even called at night, and the empathetic and understanding receptionist checked if Luna was sleeping and what the evening vet results were. No one brushed me off or ignored me. You might say the cost is high, but quality doesn't always equate to price. The people here are trained and have a big heart. So it's worth the cost. Two years earlier, we bought insurance with Bupa, and that helped. They've dedicated many years to learning and practicing, so I hope they earn well. I wish them the same, because everyone truly treats you like a loving parent. I highly recommend it.
Aneta Wilcox
2 months ago

Highly highly recommend!! The staff were very attentive throughout our visit, from arrival and triage to assessment/treatment and discharge. Caring and gentle approach to our fur baby (and to us...

Highly highly recommend!! The staff were very attentive throughout our visit, from arrival and triage to assessment/treatment and discharge. Caring and gentle approach to our fur baby (and to us extremely worried and emotional family members). Our lovely vet Dr Soshin was so gentle and thorough with her examination and thoroughly explained her assessment. The way she sat on the floor with our boy who was in a lot of pain and distress just made it all that much more calming, personal and comforting for all of us. Our boy is doing so much better so far (still monitoring and very hopeful on his treatment journey). Thank you so much for your care toward our beautiful boy Milo
Karen Clark
4 months ago

Im very grateful to the neurology team at VRH for the care my dog Dio received. Dr Simon kept me updated throughout the day and was very upfront and honest...

Im very grateful to the neurology team at VRH for the care my dog Dio received. Dr Simon kept me updated throughout the day and was very upfront and honest about the findings while still having a very gentle bedside manner. I really appreciated the time he took to communicate clearly and Im especially thankful that he requested the samples taken to be made urgent. Dr Ellen, who admitted Dio, was also wonderful. She was lovely, gentle, and kind, with a really great bedside manner that helped put me at ease when I had to leave him overnight. A big thank you as well to the team out the back for washing Dio after he had an accident following his GA. It meant a lot to know he was being cared for so thoughtfully. The reception staff were also very informative and calm, which made the whole experience feel much less stressful. Thank you to everyone involved for the care and professionalism shown to both my dog and me.
Victoria Yates
6 months ago

About VRH Dandenong

VRH is a specialist referral veterinary hospital with a 24/7 emergency department. We offer specialised expertise beyond great veterinary practice, including Emergency and Critical Care, Surgery, Neurology, Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging and Anaesthesia.

Welcome to our Veterinary Referral Hospital at 36 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong, where our state-of-the-art facility offers 24/7 emergency and specialist pet services. Our experienced team uses advanced surgical theatres, imaging suites and diagnostic tools to provide exceptional care for animals with complex conditions, working closely with your regular vet to ensure the best treatment outcomes. You can rely on our honest, approachable care, working closely with your local vet to support your pet’s wellbeing. We’re here around the clock!

Our Specialist Services

VRH provides comprehensive referral services for animals with complex conditions requiring specialised expertise, including surgery, neurology, internal medicine, anaesthesia, diagnostic imaging and emergency care. Our advanced facility features surgical theatres, intensive care units and cutting-edge equipment including 1.5T MRI, CT, digital x-ray and ultrasound.

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Our services

VRH prides itself on delivering comprehensive referral and medical services for animals with severe, complex, or prolonged conditions which require specialised equipment or expertise beyond that what can be provided by your general veterinary practice.

Our services include surgery, Internal Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging, Neurology, Anaesthesia, Emergency and Critical Care.

Our hospital features advanced surgical theatres, imaging suites, dedicated canine and feline intensive care units, custom built 1.5T MRI, CT, digital x-ray, ultrasound, fluoroscopy and lots more.

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Led by highly trained specialists, our surgery teams offers a range of complex surgical solutions for dogs and cats.

Our surgical services include soft tissue, orthopaedic, trauma, reconstructive and neurological surgeries. Our specialists take a considered approach to every case and provide a specialised treatment plan that best suits their patients and clients.

Our surgery specialists are happy to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of patients with referring vets, including a radiographic assessment of any case. Referring vets are encouraged to contact us by phone or email if they require advice on a patient.

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Our internal medicine specialists are highly qualified experts in both canine and feline internal medicine.

They work with referring vets to provide the best possible care for patients who are critically ill or have chronic, ongoing health problems. They treat a broad range of cases, including gastrointestinal disease, cardiac and respiratory disease, kidney and liver diseases, endocrine problems, immune-mediated issues, and joint disease.

With their expert knowledge and access to advanced diagnostic equipment, our internal medicine specialists thoroughly investigate the cause of a patient’s illness and create comprehensive, tailored treatment plans.

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Sites within the Animal Referral & Emergency Network have some of the most advanced diagnostic imaging equipment available within Australia. This enables our specialists to obtain the highest quality images required for diagnosis, treatment planning and prognosis of your pet’s condition. Some of the technologies our sites use include:

  • CT
  • High-field MRI
  • Digital radiography
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Ultrasound

Images obtained with this advanced equipment are interpreted by our highly skilled clinicians who are supported by specialist radiologists within the Animal Referral & Emergency Network.

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Our neurology team at VRH specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. With access to onsite high field (1.5 Tesla) MRI and 15 slice CT, along with advanced neurosurgical capabilities, we develop personalised treatment plans to manage multiple conditions.  In particular we specialise in epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease, hydrocephalus, brain tumours, inflammatory brain disease and neuromuscular disorders.

With their expert knowledge and access to advanced diagnostic equipment, our internal medicine specialists thoroughly investigate the cause of a patient’s illness and create comprehensive, tailored treatment plans.

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Our emergency and critical care departments are run by specialists offering a high level of patient care, diagnostics and intensive care medicine. This includes blood transfusions, emergency oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, emergency surgical procedures, blood gas analysis, constant delivery of pain medications, and treatment for heart failure, poisonings and trauma.

Our emergency and critical care specialists are happy to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of critical patients with referring vets via phone or email.

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At VRH, our dedicated anaesthesia team is led by specialist anaesthetists, and delivers expert care for patients across all specialty departments. We create customised anaesthetic plans, utilise advanced monitoring technology, and provide comprehensive pain management to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety throughout their procedure and hospital stay.

With their expert knowledge and access to advanced diagnostic equipment, our internal medicine specialists thoroughly investigate the cause of a patient’s illness and create comprehensive, tailored treatment plans.

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Our oncology service provides comprehensive cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for pets with a wide range of cancers. We work closely with pet owners and referring veterinarians to develop personalised treatment recommendations tailored to each patient's diagnosis, overall health, quality of life, and family goals.

From diagnosis and staging through to chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and palliative care, our focus is on achieving the best possible outcome while maintaining patient comfort and wellbeing. As part of a multidisciplinary specialist hospital, oncology patients also have access to advanced imaging, specialist surgery, and a broad network of expert clinicians, ensuring coordinated care at every stage of treatment.

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Introducing Our Complete Care TPLO Surgery Package at $7500*

If your beloved canine companion has experienced a ruptured cruciate ligament, you may have already discussed with your veterinarian the recommended course of action: a TPLO surgery (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy).

We understand that having surgery on your dog can be a worrying time, especially when it comes to financial considerations. We are proud to present our exclusive Complete Care TPLO Surgery Package, designed to alleviate any concerns related to costs.

For a transparent price of $7500* most expenses related to the surgery are covered. This includes potential surgical complications, providing reassurance throughout the process.

Terms & Conditions:

Package Inclusions

Comprehensive Consultation: Our experienced veterinary specialist team will provide a thorough consultation to discuss your pets condition and determine the best course of action. Your initial consultation will be conducted with your pet’s surgeon to ensure patient and client continuity.

Radiographs with sedation: Utilising sedation for radiographs ensures patient comfort through alleviating stress and anxiety whilst ensuring diagnostic quality images. Preoperative radiographs allow for surgical planning accuracy and repeat radiographs 8 weeks post operative allows for assessment of the healing process.

Specialist anaesthesia supervision: All patients receive tailored anaesthesia and analgesia plans under the supervision of specialist anaesthetists. Utilising advanced techniques such as local nerve blocks, we aim to maximise your pet's comfort.

Surgery and Overnight Care: The cost of the TPLO surgery, performed by our skilled surgeons, is covered. Your pet will also receive dedicated overnight care to ensure a comfortable and safe recovery.

Dedicated nursing care: From pre-operative care to anaesthesia, theatre and recovery, our highly trained nurses are with your pet every step of the way.

Revisit Consultations: All necessary revisit consultations are included in the package. Our team will closely monitor your pet’s progress and provide follow-up care to ensure their recovery is on track.

Complication Coverage: We stand by the quality of our care. The package covers the cost of dealing with any surgical complications that may arise within 12 months.

Please note:

  • *Dogs over 50kg will incur an additional fee of $500
  • Pet Health Disclaimer: The package price assumes a routine cruciate ligament rupture in a healthy pet. Additional fees may apply if other health concerns require additional investigations or care. 
  • Expected Outcome: While we strive for a complete return to function, it’s important to note that individual outcomes may vary. Failure to achieve a specific expected outcome is not considered a complication. 
  • Post-surgical Complications: All post-surgical complications must be presented to our Veterinary Referral Hospital without delay. The package covers treatments performed at our hospital only. 
  • External Veterinary Treatment: We are not responsible for treatments performed or costs incurred at other veterinary practices or elsewhere. In case of emergency, please consult the Veterinary Referral Hospital. 
  • Transportation Responsibility: Owners are responsible for transporting their pets to and from our hospital, including any associated costs. 

Exclusions/Not Included

  • FailuretoAdhere toPost-Operative Instructions: Complications resulting from a failure to follow our post-operative instructions are not covered.
  • Bilateral TPLO Procedures and Procedures with Other Surgeries: The package excludes bilateral TPLO procedures and TPLO procedures performed in association with another surgery.
  • Physiotherapy: While we provide exceptional surgical care, physiotherapy is not included in the package. Medication Beyond Immediate Post-operative Pain Relief: Any medications required beyond the initial 10 days
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Surgical Treatment for Intervertebral Disc Disease for $9,500*

Intervertebral disc disease remains the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in dogs. Patients with severe compression can present with paralysis that needs to be assessed urgently, however we understand that the cost of imaging and surgery is a major stress for pet owners. That’s why we have introduced our Spinal Treatment Package for the patients that meet the select criteria.

For a transparent price of $9,500, expenses related to the surgery are covered. *This includes a consultation with our Neurology or Surgery Services, Advanced Imaging, Decompressive Surgery and 2 days of postoperative care all inclusive.

Terms & Conditions:

Package Inclusions

Comprehensive Consultation: All patients will receive a comprehensive exam and consultation with our Neurology or Surgery services.

Advanced Imaging: Your pet will receive Advanced Imaging to confirm the diagnosis and identify the site of the surgery.

Specialist Anaesthesia supervision: All patients receive tailored anaesthesia and analgesia plans under the supervision of Specialist Anaesthetists. Utilising advanced techniques such as local nerve blocks, we aim to maximise your pet's care and comfort.

Surgery and overnight care: The cost of the spinal surgery, performed by our skilled clinicians, is covered. Your pet will also receive dedicated overnight care to ensure a comfortable and safe recovery including 2 days of hospitalisation following surgery. If bladder catheterisation is required this will also be covered.

Nursing care: From pre-operative care to anaesthesia, theatre and recovery, our highly trained nurses are with your pet every step of the way.

Postoperative Revisit: Our team will see your pet for a complimentary post-operative check 1-2 weeks after they leave hospital to ensure their recovery is on track

Please note:

  • The spinal package only applies to dogs that are 20kg and under. Dogs over 20kg will incur an additional fee.
  • The spinal package does not include any fee’s associated with our ECC department prior to being transferred to our Neurology or Surgery department.
  • If advanced imaging shows more than one site of extrusion or a complicated extrusion that requires more than 2 adjacent levels of decompression, additional fees may apply.
  • Pets that present to the hospital on weekends or out of hours may be required to undergo a CT rather than MRI scan. In addition, the need to call in out-of-hours staff will incur an additional cost of $2500 for pets that need to have surgery over the weekend.
  • If the pet requires more than 2 days of postoperative care, normal hospital fees will be incurred from the third day onwards. 

Exclusions/Not Included:

  • Pet Health Disclaimer: The package price assumes routine intervertebral disc extrusion in a healthy pet. Additional fees may apply if other health concerns require additional investigations or care.
  • External Veterinary Treatment: we are not responsible for treatments performed or costs incurred at other practices or elsewhere. In case of emergency, please consult the Veterinary Referral Hospital
  • Physiotherapy: While we provide exceptional surgical care, physiotherapy is not included in the package.
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Benefits of Donating Blood

Just like humans, pets sometimes need blood transfusions to treat serious illness or injury. These lifesaving treatments are only possible thanks to the generosity of healthy pet donors within our community.

Our nationwide Blood Donor Program enables our veterinary teams to provide critical care when it’s needed most, giving pets a fighting chance when moments matter.

If you think your pet might be able to help save the life of another beloved companion, read on to learn how they can become a lifesaving hero.

On top of the superhero status your pet will claim with their donation, there are also some other benefits to being a part of the program:

· Free initial blood typing test*

· A $100 Petbarn voucher with each donation

· A free full physical exam with each donation*

· A free full blood test once a year + basic blood screening prior to each donation*


* Combined value of over $800. Value may vary by hospital.

Terms & conditions apply. Please give us a call to chat with our friendly team, we’re here to answer any questions and guide you through the process (03) 8721 1414.

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Blood transfusions can mean the difference between life and death for pets facing emergencies or serious medical conditions. They are commonly needed for surgeries, trauma and accident cases, toxin exposure, severe anaemia, immune‑mediated diseases, and clotting disorders.

But unlike human hospitals, veterinary clinics don’t have large blood banks to draw from, they rely almost entirely on the generosity of healthy donor pets. When your dog or cat donates blood, they become part of a small but vital group helping to ensure that every pet has access to lifesaving care when they need it most.

What would a blood donation look like for my pet?

1. You’ll be contacted when your pet’s blood‑donation superpowers are needed.

We only call donors when there’s a pet in need, so every donation truly makes a difference.

2. When you arrive at our hospital, our friendly team will welcome you and admit your pet just like for any routine procedure.

We’ll ask a few questions about your pet’s recent health, and you’ll be asked to sign a consent form.

3. Once admitted, your pet will receive a full health check by our veterinary team.

This includes a pre‑donation blood screening to ensure they are healthy enough to donate safely on that day.

4. If your pet is fit and healthy to donate, they’ll be settled into a comfy bed.

An IV catheter is placed, usually in a front leg, and they’re given a light sedation to help them feel relaxed and calm during the donation.

5. A small area on your pet’s neck will be shaved for sterility, as this is where the donation needle is placed.

6. The donation itself typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.

Most pets rest comfortably throughout this time thanks to the mild sedation.

7. After the donation, your pet will receive intravenous fluids and some tasty snacks to help replenish their system. They’ll be monitored closely as they wake up from sedation.

8. Once your pet has fully recovered, our team will call you to pick up your little hero.

A quiet, relaxing evening at home on the couch is usually all they need, after all, they’ve earned it!

After donation, your pet’s blood may be used immediately for a patient in urgent need, or it may be stored under carefully controlled conditions so it’s ready the moment an emergency arises.

Whole blood can typically be refrigerated and safely stored for up to 28 days before use, although some hospitals may use it sooner depending on patient needs.

We only call on fit and healthy pets for their blood donation superpowers so your pet must meet certain criteria to donate blood. 

Feline Donors

Please note that only selected hospitals run feline donor programs

· Fit & healthy*

· Between 1-8yrs old

· A relatively cool, calm and collected temperament

· >4kg for cats

· Up to date with vaccinations and preventatives

· Not previously received a blood transfusion

·  Not currently on any medications

·  Free from any underlying health conditions

·  Desexed (females must not have had a litter)

·  Ideally indoor cats (cats will be tested for FIV)

* No underlying conditions that will affect their ability to donate blood

 

How much blood is taken?

· Dogs: Typically, 350 - 450 mL

· Cats: Typically, 40 - 60 mL

How long does a donation take?

Your pet will usually spend a few hours with us on the day of their donation. This allows our team to give them unhurried, attentive care throughout every step of the process.

The actual blood collection is quite quick, typically taking around 5-15 minutes.

Why does my pet need to stay in hospital?

Most donors will receive a light sedation to make sure they are calm and comfortable for the donation. This can mean that they spend a few hours in the hospital with our teams while they monitor their recovery. Don’t worry, our team will send home our little hero’s as soon as they are feeling great again.

Can I take my pet for a walk when they get home from their donation?

Our dedicated teams will provide you with a discharge information sheet that explains how to care for your pet when they get home after a donation.

We advise that your pet skips their afternoon walk and instead spends the evening on the couch resting. Donating blood can zap a bit of their energy so it is important to let them rest and recovery. They can usually return to their normal activities the next day.

Is blood donation safe for my pet?

Yes. The process is designed to be very safe. Pets typically tolerate donations well and return to normal activities the same day.

Our veterinary teams perform a full physical exam, pre-donation blood screen and a full annual blood panel for donors to ensure they are fit and healthy enough to donate blood.

How often can my pet donate?

It is considered quite safe for eligible dogs or cats to donate every three months however, generally speaking, we will only call on your pets donation abilities every 6 months.

Does it hurt my pet?

Our team takes every precaution to make sure the donation process is as painless and stress‑free as possible. The needle may cause a brief, mild sting that lasts only a second, similar to what humans feel during a routine blood draw. To help reduce even that tiny sensation, we typically apply a numbing cream beforehand. Most pets tolerate the needle extremely well with this approach.

Do pets have blood types?

Yes, dogs and cats do have blood types! Cats have three main types: A, B, and AB, and they can only safely receive certain types. Dogs have several blood groups, but the one veterinarians test for is DEA 1, which can be positive or negative. If your pet is eligible to be a blood donor, our team will run a blood‑typing test to find out exactly what type they are.

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