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Fish

We cater to our friends with scales, shells, feathers and more!

Fish outnumber all other pets in Australia. They are beautiful and unique creatures, that often have very specific requirements. We believe in providing a high standard of care for our fish patients and love working with our aquatic friends.

We offer all services for fish including:

  • Emergency care
  • Short term hospitalisation (some water must be provided from the home aquarium)
  • Annual health examinations
  • Laboratory testing
  • Diagnostic imaging – X-ray, Ultrasound, CT, MRI and fluoroscopy
  • Surgery and endoscopy
  • Health investigations in large collections
  • Direct access to other specialities including oncology, ophthalmology, cardiology and imaging
  • Necropsy

The Fish We See...

The most common fish we see are pet goldfish. We have experience working with a wide range of fish from guppies and koi to eels and seahorses.

Illness In Fish

Fish can often hide signs of disease until the problem has become very advanced. All fish are able to feel pain and injuries that initially seem minor, can actually be very serious. We recommend always erring on the side of caution when something seems unusual with your fish and having them examined by a veterinarian.

Signs Of Illness Or Injury In Fish

  • Less active or hyperactive
  • ‘flashing’ behaviours
  • Refusing food or reduced appetite
  • Having difficulty swimming or remaining buoyant or submersed
  • Breathing difficulties (gaping at the water surface, increased operculum/gill movements)
  • Changes to one or both eyes (swelling, redness, discharge)
  • Wounds, lumps
  • Colour change to scales, external parasites, white spots

Bringing Your Fish To The Vet

Bringing your fish to the vet can be a stressful time, especially when they are unwell or injured. There are a few things you can do to make transport less stressful and safer for your fish. If you are concerned about transportation, especially if your fish is large, please contact our department.

  • Transport tanks can be smaller glass tanks, plastic tanks, buckets or even esky containers
  • Bags can be used but they should be put in a container to reduce stress
  • Tanks should have a lid or mesh cover to prevent escape
  • An air stone can help improve the oxygen content of the water during travel
  • Use at least 50% of the water in the transport container from the aquarium
  • Please bring a sample of their tank water in a separate container
  • A photo of the tank and surroundings can often be very helpful for the veterinarian.