Young Ted and I had the ‘pleasure’ of visiting SASH on a few occasions in 2025… and he is on strict instruction to reduce the vet visits in ’26!
Our biggest health issue was in May, when Ted was diagnosed with IVDD (Stage 4). It’s shocking how quickly he went from absolutely fine during the day, to being a bit wobbly on the back legs overnight, to not being able to walk at all. He was only 4 years old at that stage, and I had no idea that IVDD was something Cocker Spaniels were at risk for.
Thankfully we live very close to SASH Northern Beaches (a fantastic new hospital), and he was able to be seen straight away early one morning. After a few days back at home on crate rest, it was clear surgery would be needed. A stressful time, but the team showed me and Ted great care and were so friendly and fantastic at their jobs.
I was a regular visitor during his 6 night stay – the team were so patient and I got to spend a good amount of time with him each day whilst he was with you. The IVDD surgery was a great success, and he was back to tail-wagging quite quickly. I got a lot of good advice from the team during the phase where he was re-learning how to walk and toilet independently. I will be forever grateful to the nurses who were able to visit us at home on Ted’s first night back – I know it’s not the norm, but they went above and beyond to help get Ted cleaned up (toilet accident) and comfortable again. Also loved the updates and fun video from your reception team on the day Ted came home. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
We came back to SASH Northern Beaches later in the year when Ted ingested a small tennis ball. The team recognised us… not sure it’s good to have a “world-famous at the emergency vet” dog, but I knew he would be in good hands again. Thanks for coordination between the Northern Beaches and North Ryde teams, surgery was avoided and Ted was back to his usually silly self the next day.
We love our pets so much, and when they’re unwell it’s a lesson in vulnerability for us all.
Highly recommend SASH… and highly recommend PET INSURANCE!
– Northern Beaches NSW
