lortsmith

Since 1936, Lort Smith has been here for Melbourne’s pets and their people – not for profit.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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!

[Australian Dog Lover @OzDogLover]

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: 👇 https://t.co/5XbOSIIVTj

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

🚨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: https://t.co/gSwL5PPGe8

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.
https://t.co/aNivdxCV3t
Microchip No: 956000011152372
Source code: BR296075

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.
https://t.co/DkOlm8CbR6
Microchip No: 956000017248317
Source code: BR296075

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

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.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

Two-year-old American Bulldog, Jango, is back to his happy self after an unexpected snack landed him in hospital for two days.
Jango’s dad, Josh, said the trouble started after his daughter put her leftovers from dinner into Jango’s food bowl, including two corn cobs.
“He stopped eating, then the next day he started vomiting and drooling a lot,” Josh says. “He was drinking heaps of water and just wasn’t himself.”
Jango continued vomiting and became increasingly flat and lethargic, prompting Josh to rush him to Lort Smith’s Emergency Department.
Scans revealed Jango had an intestinal blockage caused by a corn cob, our team acted quickly to surgically remove it before it could cause further damage.
Thankfully, after two days in hospital, Jango made a great recovery.
“He’s golden, I’m kind of surprised, but he’s already back to normal,” Josh says. “We’ll definitely make sure he never eats corn cobs again.”
With roast dinners and winter comfort foods back on the menu, Jango’s story is a timely reminder that some human foods can be especially dangerous for pets. Corn cobs are a common cause of intestinal blockages in dogs and can quickly turn a sneaky snack into a veterinary emergency.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

We’ve been inundated with requests for updates on Spice, so we thought we’d share some new photos of this gorgeous girl. Heartbreakingly, Spice has now spent more than half her life at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre, still waiting for someone to choose her.
The good news is that she is currently in a foster home, learning what it feels like to be loved and greeted with a cuddle everyday while she waits for her forever home.
But we want to make this feeling permanent for Spice and that is why she is now available through our foster-to-adopt program, meaning our team will continue supporting her transition into a new home every step of the way.
With the right guidance and love, Spice is sure to grow into an incredible companion and a deeply cherished member of the family.
We may sound like a broken record when it comes to Spice and we make no apologies about that. We will keep searching for a wonderful family for Spice because she deserves nothing less. And we hope you can share this post and join us in the search.
To submit an expression of interest and to find out whether your family is the right one for Spice, visit: https://t.co/KaZpUIHcqp
Microchip No: 956000017397731
Source code: BR296075

[Australian Dog Lover @OzDogLover]

Talk about an extraordinary milestone! 🤯

This #NationalVolunteerWeek, #Melbourne nurse Jocelyn is celebrating her 90th birthday, #LortSmith Animal Hospital is marking its 90th year, and Jocelyn has been volunteering there for exactly 30 years! 🎂👏

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

Three-year-old French Bulldog, Billie, is recovering well after being rushed to Lort Smith Animal Hospital in need of an emergency c-section following an unexpected pregnancy.
Billie had been in labour for more than eight hours without delivering any puppies when her human, Michelle, brought her to the hospital after it became clear Billie was struggling.
The veterinary team found that Billie was suffering from dystocia, a condition where a dog is unable to deliver puppies naturally and experiences difficulty during labour. Billie was then taken straight into surgery for an emergency caesarean.
“It was truly a whole-team effort. Our surgeon carefully delivered each puppy while our nursing team stood by ready to warm, stimulate and care for the newborns as they arrived,” Dr Jess said.
Thankfully, Billie safely delivered seven puppies, all of whom are now doing well alongside their mum. After a period of close monitoring to ensure everyone recovered safely, Billie and her puppies were able to return home together.
Michelle says Billie has already bounced back and settled straight into motherhood.
“She’s doing amazing and has been such a great mum,” Michelle said. “The puppies are so strong, just perfect puppies.”
At the same time as her c-section, Billie was also desexed to help prevent future unplanned pregnancies and reduce the risk of serious reproductive health conditions later in life.
“Cases like Billie’s are an important reminder of the benefits of desexing your pets,” Dr Jess said. “Not only to prevent unexpected litters, but also to support their long-term health and wellbeing.”

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

As part of National Volunteer Week, we’re celebrating all the incredible volunteers who support Lort Smith Animal Hospital, and today, we’re shining a spotlight on foster carers Jacquie and Michael, whose home has become a safe haven for pets waiting for their forever home.
For Jacquie and Michael, fostering has become a rewarding and unforgettable part of everyday life. While they’ve been fostering with Lort Smith for the past seven months, Michael had previously cared for more than two dozen puppies over the years and was eager to get back into it.
“We know there is a need,” Jacquie said. “And knowing they’re out of the shelter, in a home environment while we help them along the way, makes it really rewarding.”
Since then, their home has welcomed a range of foster animals, each bringing their own personality, quirks and challenges.
“Every day is different. They surprise you constantly and keep you on your toes,” Jacquie said. “It’s really special watching them grow and adjust, knowing we get to be part of that journey.”
Some memories still make them laugh, like the curious Whippet who pulled salmon from the rubbish, or a little Fox Terrier knocking over an empty wine rack while trying to retrieve a biscuit.
But it’s one of their previous fosters, Rowan, whose story that has stayed with them most deeply.
“When Rowan first came to us, he struggled to walk, but he was so determined through his rehab to regain his independence,” Michael said. “Our poodle, Abbey, helped keep him playful and engaged, and getting to be part of that was really special.”
Watching foster animals gain confidence, open up and become part of the family is what makes fostering so meaningful to Jacquie and Michael.
“Knowing we’re providing a safe environment while they wait for their forever homes is incredibly rewarding,” Jacquie said. “It’s not always easy, but being one link in the chain is something very special.”
And while saying goodbye is bittersweet, seeing their fosters thrive in new homes makes it all worthwhile.
“We love getting updates. One of our previous fosters recently passed puppy preschool, and it was amazing seeing how much they’d grown and how happy they were with their new family.” Michael said.
Jacquie and Michael encourage anyone considering fostering to give it a go.
“It’s a big commitment, and sometimes chaotic because you never know what you’re going to get, but it’s so rewarding. Every animal is unique and deserves the chance at a terrific life.” Jacquie said.
Thank you, Jacquie and Michael, for the care, patience and compassion you show animals in need.

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

Six-month-old German Shepherd Hank is searching for a fresh start after coming into our care a little worse for wear. When he first arrived, he needed time, care and plenty of support to get back on his paws, but with patience and dedicated TLC, Hank has healed beautifully and is now thriving and ready to find a family to call his own.
Like many young shepherds, Hank is clever, energetic and always ready for something to do. He thrives when his mind is engaged and will suit an active home that enjoys training, enrichment and regular exercise. Whether he’s chasing ping pong balls, playing fetch, hopping in the car for an adventure or simply leaning into his people for attention, Hank brings an infectious enthusiasm to every part of his day.
He’s a bright young dog who is still learning about the world and will flourish with a family willing to guide him with patience, consistency and positive training. For now, Hank is looking for a home where he can be the only animal while he continues building his confidence around other dogs.
With the right support, Hank has all the makings of a deeply loyal companion. If you’re looking for a fun-loving shepherd with a big heart and an adventurous spirit, handsome Hank could be the perfect fit for your family.
Come visit him at Campbellfield Adoption Centre or fill out an expression of interest today.
https://t.co/QQ4fmEkCxl
Microchip number: 953010007962130
Source number: BR296075

[Australian Dog Lover @OzDogLover]

Prepping a winter casserole or stew tonight? 🍲
🛑Stop before you share ANY leftovers with your pet! Many common "comfort food" ingredients are hidden toxins for dogs.

📋Check the "No-Go" list before you cook: 🔗
https://t.co/OCIzR5FTRU

#DogSafety #WinterCooking #PetHealth

[lortsmith @LortSmith]

Tiny but determined, one-year-old Chihuahua, Sweets, certainly lives up to his name. But after helping himself to two squares of milk chocolate, his mum Leila found herself rushing him to the Lort Smith’s Emergency Department in a panic.
“I thought I had placed the chocolate up high enough, but I was working on my laptop and got distracted,” Leila says. “Next thing I knew, he’d gotten hold of a couple of squares.”
Like many Chihuahuas, Sweets may be small, but he has a very big personality and an even bigger sense of determination.
“He’s my perfect problem son,” Leila says. “He always tries to go for things that are dangerous to him. He’s just really determined.”
Knowing chocolate can be dangerous for dogs, Leila didn’t hesitate to seek help.
“He’s my son. Anything that goes wrong, I get so worried and immediately bring him to the vet.”
At Lort Smith, our emergency team quickly treated him before the chocolate could make Sweets unwell. Thankfully, this sweet little boy was soon back home recovering safely.
Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance dogs can’t process properly. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, agitation, tremors and heart problems, especially in tiny dogs like Chihuahuas. Dark chocolate is particularly dangerous, but any chocolate should be kept well out of reach of curious pets.
Today is International Chihuahua Appreciation Day. Sweets’ story is a reminder that even the tiniest dogs can find themselves in big trouble, especially when sweet treats are involved.

#InternationalChihuahuaAppreciationDay #chihuahuas #chihuahua #vetcare #petsafety