Top Australian Shepherd Veterinarian Dr. Shepherd's Specialized Care

Introducing Dr. Shepherd, Veterinarian

Dr. Lucas Shepherd is a talented and caring veterinarian who specializes in treating Australian Shepherds and other herding breeds. Based in Australia, Dr. Shepherd has become known as the top vet for Aussies in his area through years of experience and a gentle touch with the energetic pups.

Early Interest in Veterinary Medicine

From a young age, Dr. Shepherd knew he wanted to work with animals. He was always bringing home stray cats and dogs as a child, begging his parents to let him keep them. As a teenager, Shepherd got his first job working weekends and summers at a local veterinary clinic where he fell even more in love with caring for furry patients.

Shepherd worked hard in school, volunteering in animal shelters and wildlife rehabilitation centers whenever he could. He knew that being a vet would allow him to make a difference while spending his days around the creatures he loved most.

Specializing in Australian Shepherds

During veterinary school, Shepherd adopted his first Australian Shepherd, a blue merle Aussie named Barkley. The bright, active pup captured his heart even as he challenged Shepherd with his boundless energy. As Shepherd learned more about the herding breed, he appreciated their intelligence and loyal nature underneath the constant motion.

Shepherd found that few vets in his area catered specifically to Aussies and their unique needs. From their active lifestyle to their sensitivity during exams, specialized care improved outcomes for the popular pups. As Shepherd grew his veterinary skills, he tailored his practice to Australian Shepherds who required a compassionate touch during treatment.

Holistic Care for the Busy Breed

Now as head veterinarian at Oakwood Animal Hospital, Dr. Shepherd strives to deliver thorough, holistic care to every Aussie he treats. He understands that proper nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation are key components behind these dogs' stellar health and happiness.

"Australian Shepherds are working dogs at heart, so they thrive when given plenty of jobs and playtime," says Dr. Shepherd. "I get to know the lifestyle of each active Aussie to provide customized care, improving not just their physical health but their emotional wellbeing too."

Caring for Aussies Big and Small

At Oakwood Animal Hospital, Dr. Shepherd treats Australian Shepherds of all shapes, sizes, ages and activity levels. From heartworm tests to dental cleanings, he offers comprehensive exams tailored to the unique needs of Aussies. Dr. Shepherd also performs surgery when needed - he is skilled at ACL repairs, gastrointestinal procedures, cancer treatment and more for Aussies.

Puppy Care

Dr. Shepherd sees a number of Australian Shepherd puppies for their initial exams, first vaccines plus microchipping. He ensures the sensitive Aussie pups feel comfortable, offering treats and gentle handling as he evaluates their development and personality. Beyond standard checks, Dr. Shepherd talks new Aussie owners through training, socialization, exercise recommendations to set the stage for a happy, healthy future.

Geriatric Aussies

At the other end of his patients, Dr. Shepherd cares compassionately for senior Aussies. With his depth of breed knowledge, he can accurately diagnose emerging issues then create senior-friendly, gentle treatment plans. From specialized diets to pain management to mobility aids, he helps aging Aussies stay comfortable no matter their activity level. Regular exams catch problems early while understanding the sensitivities of the bright dogs keeps their golden years positive.

"I feel privileged to care for Australian Shepherds from curious puppy to noble senior," says Dr. Shepherd with a smile. "To earn an Aussie's trust through thoughtful treatment is the most rewarding part of my job."

Emergency Care for Aussie Injuries

As active herding dogs, Australian Shepherds suffer their share of strains, sprains and accidents. Dr. Shepherd provides emergency care for Aussies in need of urgent treatment. Open evenings and weekends, Oakwood Animal Hospital stabilizes pups, performs diagnostics then creates care plans to restore Aussie patients quickly.

Common Injuries

Energetic Aussies are prone to certain sports and trauma injuries from their action-packed lifestyle according to Dr. Shepherd:

• Sprains & strains - Wrists, ankles, knees from quick turns and jumps
• Lacerations - Cuts on legs, paws from farm work or sharp objects
• Bites - Face, legs if altercations with other animals
• Ingestions - Upset stomach from eating or drinking harmful household items accidentally
• Hit by car - Broken bones, internal bleeding from impact with vehicles

In any emergency, Dr. Shepherd assesses the Aussie patient swiftly then provides treatment to ease pain, resolve the problem. He understands the stress injuries cause sensitive Aussies so therapy addresses both physical trauma and emotional needs during recovery.

Rehabilitation & Aftercare

Once stabilized, Dr. Shepherd creates tailored rehabilitation plans so active Aussies can return to their energetic selves. From post-op guidelines to home exercises, his expansive knowledge of sports medicine and orthopedics gets Aussies back on their paws. Follow-up exams ensure injuries heal fully; some patients also benefit from prescription strength supplements.

"My goal is helping Aussies return to their active lifestyles pain-free," explains Dr. Shepherd. "Their spirit shines through when rehab brings mobility, playfulness back after injuries or surgery."

With specialized care during and after medical issues, Dr. Shepherd brings the signature Aussie vitality back better than ever!

FAQs

What types of conditions does Dr. Shepherd treat?

Dr. Shepherd treats all conditions that affect Australian Shepherds and similar herding breed dogs. This includes preventative care like vaccines and checkups, chronic issues like arthritis and allergies, orthopedic injuries, emergency care, plus holistic services like acupuncture and customized nutrition plans.

Does Dr. Shepherd offer surgery and specialist services?

Yes, Dr. Shepherd performs surgery at Oakwood Animal Hospital as needed for his Aussie patients. He has advanced skills in orthopedic surgery, cancer treatment, neurological conditions and more. Dr. Shepherd also refers and consults with veterinary specialists like ophthalmologists, dermatologists and rehab therapists.

What should I do if my Aussie needs emergency care?

If your Australian Shepherd requires urgent veterinary care for an injury or acute illness, contact Oakwood Animal Hospital right away. The hospital is open late plus weekends to stabilize emergency cases. Call ahead if possible so the compassionate staff can prepare for your Aussie's arrival.

Why does Dr. Shepherd specialize in Australian Shepherds?

With his own beloved Aussies at home, Dr. Shepherd understands the breed inside and out. From their sensitive nature to their high-energy exercise needs, tailored care benefits Aussies tremendously compared to a general practice approach. Dr. Shepherd keeps up with the latest Australian Shepherd health research to provide cutting-edge treatment guided by his years of hands-on experience.