Mentone Veterinary Hospital stands as a pillar of compassionate animal care. For over seven decades, this esteemed practice has been dedicated to the health and wellbeing of pets, blending modern veterinary science with a warm, community-focused approach. Established in the 1950s on Nepean Highway, the hospital relocated to its current purpose-built facility at 19 Balcombe Road in December 1999, marking a new era of expanded services and state-of-the-art equipment. Today, it continues to serve as a trusted haven for pet owners across Melbourne’s bayside region.
The hospital’s mission is simple yet profound: to provide friendly, helpful veterinary services that prioritise the bond between pets and their families. Open seven days a week, consultations are available by appointment, ensuring that urgent needs are met promptly. Operating hours cater to busy lifestyles—Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm—though pet owners are advised to confirm any changes, as past adjustments due to events like COVID-19 have occasionally affected Sunday openings.
A Comprehensive Suite of Services
At Mentone Veterinary Hospital, the range of services is as diverse as the pets they treat, from routine check-ups to advanced surgical interventions. Consultations form the cornerstone, where experienced veterinarians offer thorough examinations and tailored advice. For those quick queries, telephone consultations provide reassurance, though the team always recommends in-person visits for unwell animals.
Surgery is handled with precision in a sterile operating theatre, equipped for everything from desexings and tumour removals to complex procedures involving the liver, bowel, or urinary tract. A cryosurgery unit addresses smaller skin issues, particularly sun-related carcinomas in cats. Anaesthesia is managed with cutting-edge monitoring tools, including blood pressure, breathing, and heart monitors, all overseen by skilled nurses.
Dentistry receives equal attention, utilising a compressed-air unit with ultrasonic scalers, polishers, and high-speed burrs to clean and extract teeth efficiently, minimising trauma for dogs, cats, and even smaller companions like rabbits.
Diagnostic imaging is a standout feature, boasting a digital radiology (DR) unit for instant X-rays, ultrasound for soft tissue visualisation, endoscopy for internal examinations and biopsies, and electrocardiography (ECG) for heart assessments. These tools enable rapid diagnoses, such as detecting foreign bodies or cardiac irregularities.
Laboratory services ensure quick results, with on-site blood testing and courier links to specialised pathology labs. For longer stays, the hospital ward offers secure, heated cages designed for comfort and stress reduction, plus an isolation area for infectious cases.
Grooming adds a pampering touch, with a hydrobath available for deep cleans—perfect for dogs of all sizes. Bookings are recommended, especially on weekends.
Specialised offerings include microchip implantation, essential for pet identification and council registration in Victoria. The hospital is a member of the International Society of Feline Medicine, staying abreast of the latest in cat health. Pet owners can also stock up on premium foods like Royal Canin and Hills Science Diet, alongside parasite preventatives, collars, leads, and toys.
For young pups, the Puppy School—typically held on Wednesday evenings—covers obedience, socialisation, and common issues like toilet training and barking. Though classes were paused during COVID-19 lockdowns, they remain a beloved programme for building well-adjusted canine companions. Referrals to specialists in fields like ophthalmology, oncology, and cardiology ensure comprehensive care for complex cases.
Meet the Dedicated Team
The heart of Mentone Veterinary Hospital beats through its passionate staff, led by practice owner Dr. Andrew Milne. A graduate of The University of Melbourne (BVSc), Dr. Milne joined in 2001 and has since developed a keen interest in surgery, completing advanced courses through Sydney University’s Post Graduate Foundation. Beyond the clinic, he’s a tech enthusiast keeping systems running smoothly, and shares his home with a toy poodle named Truffle and a Bengal cat called Glacier. His active lifestyle includes hockey, snowboarding, and mountain biking.
Joining him are veterinarians like Dr. Rosie Jordan (BVSc hons), Dr. Rebecca Champion (BVSc hons, BSc), Dr. Avril Williams (BVMS, MANZCVSc), and Dr. Sam Balson (DVM), each bringing unique expertise to the table.
The nursing team is equally impressive. Debbie, a veteran since 1981, is a horse aficionado running a Warmblood stud and caring for a menagerie including cattle, birds, and a cat. Lisa-Maree, with her Certificate IV, juggles veterinary duties with family life, hand-rearing orphans and tending to her Great Dane, cats, rabbits, guinea pig, and turtles. Maggie, who emigrated from England in 1980, focuses on weight management and elderly pet care; she’s an artist of Australian wildlife and supports greyhound rehoming, living with her own retired greyhound, cats, and birds. Supporting them are Stefan, trainee Sarah, Maya, and Kelly, all committed to exceptional nursing.
Community and Beyond
Mentone Veterinary Hospital isn’t just a clinic—it’s a community hub. Through its long history, it has fostered strong ties with local pet owners, offering not only medical expertise but also education on pet welfare. While specific recent events are sparse in records, the hospital’s Facebook page often shares tips, updates, and heartwarming stories, encouraging engagement from the Mentone community.
For emergencies outside hours, referrals to 24-hour centres in Moorabbin, Frankston, Hallam, or Mount Waverley ensure round-the-clock support.
In an era where pets are family, Mentone Veterinary Hospital exemplifies excellence, combining tradition with innovation to keep tails wagging and purrs resounding.
Contact Details: Mentone Veterinary Hospital 19 Balcombe Road, Mentone, Victoria 3194, Australia Phone: 03 9583 4660 Website: www.mentonevet.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/mentonevet Email: Enquiries can be made via the website contact form.
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