Your pet means the world to you, and to us. We understand how important it is to get the right care, at the right time. That’s why our team provides a range of vet consults tailored to your pet’s situation.
Most pets should see their vet at least once a year for a general health check. Regular visits help catch small problems before they become serious, and keep your companion happy, healthy and comfortable at every life stage. You can learn more about what happens during an annual wellness visit in our Annual pet check-up guide. For senior pets (aged 7 and over) we recommend a vet visit every six months.
If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, appetite, energy levels, or appearance, it’s always best to visit your vet right away, even small changes can be an early sign that something’s not quite right.
Which vet consultation is right for your pet?
Use the guide below to find your best option, and if you’re ever unsure, our team is here to support you. Just give us a call on 03 9328 3021 or email info@lortsmith.com
- General consult (20 minutes) – for routine care, everyday health checks and new, straightforward issues like limping, appetite changes, lumps, or vomiting/diarrhoea. Available at both our North Melbourne and Campbellfield clinics.
Learn more about our general consults here.
- Extended consult (30 minutes) – for more complex issues or multiple concerns, such as ongoing skin or ear infections, blood pressure checks, or chronic conditions that need extra time. Available at both our North Melbourne and Campbellfield clinics.
Learn more about our extended consults here.
- Behaviour consult (one hour) – for behavioural issues like anxiety, aggression, or destructive habits. Only available at our Campbellfield clinic.
Learn more about our behaviour consults here.
What to expect at your pet’s vet consultation
- Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for parking and check-in.
- Bring any previous medical history, test results or medications your pet is currently taking.
- Behaviour consultations include an online pre-appointment questionnaire to help us tailor the session, please submit this ahead of your appointment.
- If you’re unsure which consultation is right, call our team and we’ll guide you to the best fit.
Book an appointment online here or call our team to book or discuss your pet’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most pets should visit the vet at least once a year for a general health check. Regular check-ups help catch potential health issues early, before they become serious. Senior pets, puppies and kittens, or pets with ongoing conditions may need to visit more often.
If you notice any changes in your pet’s behaviour, appetite, or energy levels, it’s best to book a check-up sooner.
A general consultation lasts around 20 minutes and covers routine care or new, simple issues such as limping, vomiting, diarrhoea, or appetite changes.
An extended consultation runs for 30 minutes and is designed for multiple or complex concerns, such as chronic skin or ear conditions, blood pressure monitoring, or when your pet has several problems to discuss.
If you’re not sure which to book, our team will guide you when you call or book online.
If your pet is showing ongoing behaviour concerns, like anxiety, noise phobias, fear-based aggression, destructive habits, or house soiling, a behaviour consultation is the best choice. These sessions last 60 minutes and include a detailed assessment, tailored advice, and follow-up recommendations. Please book this appointment at least four days in advance and complete the online pre-consultation questionnaire before your visit.
If your pet is seriously unwell or injured, please do not book online, come straight to our Emergency Department in North Melbourne.
Go directly to emergency if your pet has:
- Difficulty breathing or choking
- Major injuries or uncontrolled bleeding
- Collapse, seizures, or paralysis
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
- Inability to urinate or defecate
- A swollen or distended abdomen
No referral is needed for general, extended or behaviour consultations. You can book directly online or by phone. If your pet has already been seen elsewhere, please bring any records, x-rays or test results so our team can provide the best possible care.
Your vet will examine your pet, discuss any symptoms or concerns, and explain their findings in clear, easy-to-understand language. You’ll receive tailored recommendations, which may include tests, medication, or treatment plans, and time for questions. Our goal is for you to leave feeling informed, supported, and confident about your pet’s next steps.
You’re not alone, many animals get a little anxious at the vet. Please let us know when you book, and we’ll take extra steps to keep things calm and gentle.
Our team uses fear-free handling techniques, and our custom-designed waiting pods provide privacy and a quieter space to help pets relax. Prefer to wait in the car? That’s perfectly fine, we’ll call or come out to get you when it’s time for your appointment.
