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 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 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: bit.ly/4uwbigK

Two-year-old Bordoodle, Wilma, has never been one to pass up a snack, but this time her curiosity landed her in a sticky situation. Amanda, Wilma’s mum, was at home when she noticed Wilma chewing on something unusual. Her daughter's Hubba Bubba tape gum had been left on a low table, still inside its plastic case, but that wasn't enough to stop the determined pup. “I saw her chewing something and when I checked, I realised she had eaten most of the roll,” Amanda said. “I managed to pull some out of her mouth, but she chomped down on it when she saw me coming.” As soon as Amanda reached for the gum, Wilma quickly swallowed most of it. By the time Amanda intervened, Wilma had consumed up to three-quarters of the 180cm strip. After checking the ingredients and confirming the gum did not contain xylitol, Amanda's concern shifted to another serious risk, intestinal obstruction. She immediately brought Wilma to Lort Smith's Emergency Department for assessment. Although Hubba Bubba tape gum does not contain xylitol, many sugar-free gums do. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and severe liver damage, even in small amounts. That's why it's important to seek veterinary advice immediately if your pet eats chewing gum, even if you're unsure of the ingredients. Large amounts of gum, as well as wrappers and packaging, can also become lodged in the stomach or intestines, creating a potentially serious foreign body obstruction. Thankfully, Wilma received prompt treatment before the gum could cause any complications. “She’s fine now, all good,” Amanda said. “If we had left it, it might have been a different story.” Wilma made a full recovery, but her story shows how easily children's treats and other small items can become dangerous temptations for curious pets. Thankfully, Wilma is back to her happy, curious self, but is still convinced that anything within reach might be worth a taste.

Just a couple of months ago, six-week-old Dorothy was the victim of a shocking act of cruelty after being thrown from a moving car onto the road in Melbourne’s west. Thanks to the quick actions of Good Samaritans, Emma and Tahlia, and the care she received at Lort Smith Animal Hospital, this brave little kitten was given a second chance. Now, Dorothy has found exactly where she belongs. For Tahlia, who helped rescue Dorothy that day, the news of Dorothy’s adoption was cause for celebration. “We were so excited when we got the call,” she said. “We were absolutely thrilled, just completely over the moon. We thought Dorothy would be in foster care for much longer, but we’re so happy she has already bounced back so quickly.” In a heartwarming twist, Dorothy has found her forever home with Tahlia’s mother-in-law, Lynn, who fell in love with the tiny kitten from the moment she first saw her. “When we first rescued Dorothy, we took her to my mother-in-law Lynn’s house because it was closer,” Tahlia said. “The moment Lynn saw her, she said, ‘She’s mine.’” Although she was instantly smitten, Lynn knew Dorothy needed time to recover from the fractured pelvis she sustained before she could come home. “Lynn was devastated that she couldn’t take Dorothy home straight away, but she knew Dorothy needed medical care first,” Tahlia said. “As soon as we found out she could adopt her, Lynn was ready and waiting to bring her home.” When that day finally came, Lynn couldn’t contain her excitement. “I was so excited to find out that I was getting to adopt her,” she said. “I love her so much already and I can’t wait to give her the best life.” As Dorothy begins the next chapter in her life, Lynn is looking forward to spoiling the tiny survivor with all the love and comfort she deserves. “She’ll be sleeping in my bed now,” Lynn said. “We’re over at Lynn’s place all the time, so Dorothy is still very much part of the family.” Tahlia said Dorothy’s story began with an act of unimaginable cruelty, but thanks to the kindness of strangers and the dedication of her carers, it has ended with a loving family and a bright future ahead.

For the past 10 years, Jo has been a familiar and much-loved face at Lort Smith Animal Hospital. Whether she’s caring for cats, mentoring new volunteers, tackling laundry duties or fostering kittens, Jo’s dedication has made a difference to countless animals and people alike. Jo first began volunteering at North Melbourne while working part-time, helping in the laundry. When the Campbellfield Adoption Centre opened, she joined the cattery team and quickly found her place. “I’m part of the furniture there now,” Jo laughed. A decade later, Jo still volunteers in the laundry every second weekend at North Melbourne and spends her Saturdays and Sundays caring for cats at Campbellfield. “I love it. It’s my passion now. Some people love golf, but I love volunteering at Lort Smith,” Jo said. Now retired, Jo says volunteering has become her “home away from home” and something that gives back just as much as she gives. “It’s satisfying, the people are great, the staff are great and I really enjoy the connection with people who love animals,” she said. Her love of helping animals extends beyond the shelter walls. For the past seven years, Jo has opened her home to foster kittens, helping vulnerable youngsters grow and thrive until they are ready for adoption. “I love fostering kittens. It’s a privilege to watch them grow and flourish,” she said. One of her current foster kittens, Edamame, holds a special place in her heart. “She was skin and bones when she came to me, and now she’s fit, happy and ready to be adopted.” Jo also adopted her own cat, Odie, from Lort Smith in 2024. And after 10 years of service, Jo has no plans of slowing down. “I’ll do it for as long as I can stand up,” she said. “I aspire to do 30 years. I just love it.” Thank you, Jo, for a decade of compassion, dedication and kindness. The countless animals, staff, volunteers and adopters whose lives you’ve touched are better for having you as part of the Lort Smith family. Pictured here are Jo and her foster kittens.

Nine-year-old Beagle, Poppy, gave her family quite a scare after helping herself to several pieces of chewing gum containing both caffeine and xylitol. Poppy’s dad, Paul, suspects she ate around six pieces of the gum after finding wrappers scattered across the floor. The gum had been inside his daughter’s bag, which had been placed on a bedroom floor. “Poppy is a bit of a scavenger, and she must have found the gum in the bag,” Paul said. Although Poppy appeared completely normal, her family knew that both caffeine and xylitol can be dangerous for dogs and rushed her to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. Xylitol poisoning in dogs is serious and potentially fatal. Xylitol, a sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products such as gum, can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar and, in severe cases, liver failure. Caffeine is also toxic to dogs, causing symptoms such as restlessness, hyperactivity, tremors, elevated heart rate and seizures. “She wasn’t showing any symptoms, but we wanted to get her checked out just in case,” Paul said. Our team quickly assessed and treated her before the combination of toxins could cause any serious effects. Thanks to her family’s quick action, Poppy was able to return home the same day. “She was a bit hyperactive when we got home, but otherwise she was completely normal. She’s fine now,” Paul said. Poppy’s story is a reminder that some foods and treats commonly found around the home can contain ingredients that are potentially toxic to pets. Checking ingredient labels and keeping these products securely stored can help prevent an unexpected trip to the vet.

We’re starting the week with some wonderful news. After spending 270 days waiting for a family of his own, our longest resident and favourite feline Buckley, has finally found his forever home! The two-year-old charmer recently headed home with Rachael and her dog Boji, and it’s safe to say he has settled in exactly where he belongs. “I don’t understand what took so long for him to get adopted,” Rachael said. “He can be a little naughty, but he is a cat. He’s so cuddly and affectionate, just adorable and beautiful.” After recently losing her cat that she adopted from Lort Smith 14 years ago, Rachael said she missed having a cat at home and was ready to welcome another one into her life. “I was looking at a lot of cats online, and Buckley looked just like my old cat,” she said. The connection was instant when they met at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre. “When I met him, he was pretty chill and affectionate, very inquisitive, just everything you want in a cat.” Now happily settled into his new home, Buckley has quickly become part of the family. “He sits in the window and waits for me to come home. He’s exactly what I need,” Rachael said. Described by his new mum as “a character”, Buckley has fully embraced home life. “He’s just a dude, a bro,” she laughed. “He likes to chill, enjoys sitting by the fireplace and running up and down the hallway. He’s a bit chunky so it sounds like he’s galloping.” Buckley and Boji have also become firm friends. “They play together, Buckley stalks him a little, but he knows Boji’s boundaries,” Rachael said. “They give each other nose touches and kisses.” After nine months of waiting, we couldn’t be happier to see Buckley finally enjoying the loving home he deserves. Thank you to Rachael and Boji for giving this beautiful boy the fresh start he’s been waiting for.

Our winter blanket appeal, Operation #Snugglebug in today’s @theheraldsun Don’t forget to add an extra blanket on your winter shopping list for our cats and dogs if possible!

Want to keep a rescue pet warm this winter? 🐕🐈‍⬛♨️ 📢 #LortSmith Animal Hospital #VIC needs your help for 'Operation Snugglebug'! Before you donate your old towels and blankets, check their strict hygiene & safety guidelines to see what they can accept: 👇 australiandoglover.com/2026/…

Four-month-old Ragdoll kitten Jasper was playing with his best friend, Bindi, when it took a frightening turn. Jasper and Bindi were playing together on the bed, like they had many times before, when they both slipped off the edge, and the much larger dog accidently landed on the small kitten. After the fall, Jasper was unable to use his back left leg properly, and Kayla rushed him to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department for help. X-rays revealed Jasper had suffered a fracture near the hip joint that required surgery to repair. Jasper underwent a femoral head ostectomy (FHO), a procedure that removes the damaged part of the hip joint so a new, pain-free false joint can form over time. After around six weeks of recovery and rest, Jasper is expected to get back to all the things he loves most, such as playing with his best friend Bindi. “They absolutely adore each other,” Kayla, Jasper and Bindi’s mum, said. “Bindi has really been missing him while he’s been recovering.” The pair are inseparable at home, often curled up together, with Jasper sleeping on Bindi’s head or draped across her whenever he gets the chance. “The house just hasn’t been the same,” Kayla said. “Jasper is on strict crate rest, so Bindi can’t play or cuddle with him like normal.” While Jasper recovers, the hardest part for both pets has been not being able to spend time together as they usually would. Normally side by side, the pair are now having to take things slowly while Jasper heals. For now, Jasper’s focus is on rest, recovery and getting strong enough to get back to playing and cuddling with his best friend Bindi again.

🚨Please share! 🚨 With the official start of winter just a few days away, we have launched Operation Snugglebug, our annual winter blanket, towel and treats drive. Every year, more than 20,000 animals visit our hospital and adoption centre seeking warmth, comfort and the best possible care from our teams across North Melbourne and Campbellfield. Heading up the mission again this year is Detective Pupster Smith, who is hard at work sniffing out all the generous and kind members of our community willing to donate this winter and help keep our animals warm and their tummies full. Soft blankets, towels and treats may seem simple, but they make a world of difference for pets staying in hospital or shelter care, helping them feel safe, secure and comfortable while they recover or wait for a new home. Much needed donations can be dropped off or couriered to: Lort Smith Animal Hospital: 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne, Vic 3051 Campbellfield Clinic and Adoption Centre: 25-35 Berwick Road, Campbellfield, Vic 3061 For a full list on what we can and cannot accept this winter please visit: lortsmith.com/support-our-wo…

Seven-year-old Lottie is the definition of a seasoned sweetheart, with a playful streak and plenty of Staffy charm still packed into her little body. After being surrendered due to allergies in the family, this lovely girl is now searching for a fresh start with people who will adore her just as much as she’ll adore them. True to her Staffordshire roots, Lottie firmly believes she should be the centre of attention at all times, and honestly, she makes a pretty convincing case for it. Whether she’s curled up beside you on the couch, proudly carrying around a squeaky toy, or keeping watch from the window like the neighbourhood supervisor, Lottie is happiest simply being near her people. Despite being seven years old, Lottie still has plenty of spunk left in her and absolutely loves a game of fetch. She also enjoys backyard playtime and soaking up as many head scratches and cuddles as possible throughout the day. Lottie is polite around other dogs but is far more interested in human company, and would much rather spend her time bonding closely with her family than worrying about canine friendships. She’s affectionate, loyal and ready to be someone’s constant companion. If you’re looking for a loving best friend who will happily keep you company through life’s quieter moments and bring plenty of personality along the way, Lottie would love to meet you. Come visit her at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today. lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 956000011152372 Source code: BR296075

Seven-year-old French bulldog, Dude, certainly has a taste for the finer things in life, which is why he decided to help himself to a very fancy gift left wrapped on the coffee table. “It was my mum’s Mother’s Day present,” Sierra, Dude’s mum, said. “About $50 worth of Koko Black chocolate; dark chocolate covered coffee beans, macadamia nuts dusted in cocoa, and orange oil chocolates. My mum left the bag on the coffee table without thinking before we stepped out to see a show.” That was all the opportunity Dude needed. He ate everything. Chocolate, coffee beans, macadamia nuts… even some of the packaging for good measure. “He looked pregnant,” Sierra said. “You could actually feel the lumps of nuts through his belly.” Like many French bulldogs, Dude may be compact, but he has a very clear sense of ambition when it comes to food. And apparently, no remorse. “He didn’t learn his lesson,” Sierra said. “The next day he tried to steal sushi off the table. He’s not sorry for his actions.” Knowing that dark chocolate and coffee beans are toxic to dogs, Sierra didn’t hesitate to rush him to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department. “I didn’t realise macadamia nuts were toxic to dogs,” she said. “If he hadn’t eaten the chocolate as well, I honestly wouldn’t have known to bring him in.” Our team quickly assessed and treated him before the combination of toxins could cause any serious effects. Macadamia nuts, chocolate and coffee beans all contain compounds that dogs can’t process safely. Even small amounts can cause serious illness, and in combination they significantly increase the risk of toxicity. Dude’s story is a reminder that curious noses, especially the ones with zero shame, can get into serious trouble when sweet treats are left within reach.

More than 100 days ago, Swifty arrived to Campbellfield Adoption Centre absolutely terrified. Everything about shelter life felt overwhelming for him. New smells, unfamiliar sounds, different people walking past his room every day, it was all just too much for a little cat who had never really learned that humans could be safe. In those early days, Swifty would spend most of his time tucked away, watching the world carefully from a hiding spot where he felt protected. Even the smallest interactions felt scary to him. But over time, something started to change. The team caring for Swifty began learning the little things that make him feel safe. Sitting quietly nearby without asking anything of him. Offering creamy treats. Gentle play sessions with feather wands from a comfortable distance. Moving slowly, speaking softly, letting him decide when he was ready. And little by little, Swifty started showing us who he really is. A curious boy who peeks out to watch what you’re doing. A playful cat who can’t resist a feather toy. A gentle soul who wants connection, but just needs time to believe it’s safe. The progress might seem small to some people, but for Swifty, every step has been huge. The first time he stayed out in the open a little longer. The moments he stopped hiding straight away when staff entered the room. The quiet confidence that’s slowly beginning to replace fear. Cats like Swifty ask for patience, but they also give something incredibly special in return. When a shy cat finally chooses to trust you, to sit a little closer, accept a gentle pat, or simply relax in your presence, it feels completely earned. Swifty is looking for a calm, adult-only home with someone kind enough to let him settle in at his own pace and continue the journey we’ve started with him here. Swifty has Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, which is a slow-acting virus that eventually makes cats less able to fight off infection. However, because it is such a slow acting virus many FIV positive cats can enjoy a normal lifespan with no apparent health problems resulting from the virus. If you have a peaceful home and a patient heart, Swifty may just be the perfect companion for you. Come visit him at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or submit an expression of interest today. lortsmith.com/adoption/avail… Microchip No: 956000017248317 Source code: BR296075

We’re kicking off Friday with some happy news, we introduced you to handsome Hank last week, and he’s already found the fresh start he deserved, landing exactly where he belongs. Now renamed Max, the six-month-old German Shepherd has settled beautifully into life with his new mum and dad, who instantly fell for him the moment they met. “My wife found him on Facebook,” Max’s dad said. “We met him and just looked at each other and went, yeah.” After losing their beloved dog, Max’s new family said they knew they were ready to open their hearts again when they saw his photos online. “We feel blessed to have him,” his dad said. “We want to give him the most enjoyment we can.” Max is already making himself right at home, complete with two beds, plenty of toys, and daily walks around Melbourne. “I was keeping one eye open watching him at night, but he sleeps like a baby,” his dad laughed. Described as calm, affectionate and incredibly smart, Max has quickly become part of the family. “You can look into his eyes and they are almost human,” he said. “He’s very happy, very calm and so affectionate. He’s always looking at me like, ‘What are we doing now?’” The couple have already been stopped many times while out walking Max. “We took him for a walk in Coburg and people just kept complimenting him,” his dad said. “He’s a beautiful dog.” Max’s mum says he’s thriving in his new life. “We love taking him for walks down to the beach,” she said. “He’s doing very well, he’s a happy little camper and making lots of new friends.” Thank you to Max’s new family for giving this beautiful boy the loving forever home he’s been waiting for.