The Local Vet Watsons Bay Pets Love

Living in Watsons Bay is like being on permanent holiday. But when your pet needs medical attention, you don't want to be crossing the bridge or fighting traffic to Bondi Junction. You want a vet that is practically a neighbour.

Welcome to Vaucluse Vet

Vaucluse Vet is the trusted veterinary clinic for the Watsons Bay community. Located just up the hill on Old South Head Road, we are the "local vet" for families from Camp Cove to The Gap.

We understand the unique lifestyle of Bay dogs—from the sand in their paws at Gibsons Beach to the Sunday strolls near the ferry wharf. We are here to keep them healthy, happy, and ready for their next adventure.

Why Watsons Bay Locals Choose Us

We are the closest, most convenient full-service hospital for Watsons Bay residents.

1. The "2-Minute" Commute: Let's be honest—we are barely a separate suburb. A quick drive up the hill and you are at our door. No traffic lights, no congestion, just a straight run to expert care.

2. Easy Parking: Unlike the struggle for a spot near the Watsons Bay Hotel on a Sunday, our clinic has dedicated parking. You can get your sick pet from the car to the consult room in seconds.

3. Marine & Coastal Expertise: Watsons Bay pets spend their life by the water. Our team is highly experienced in "coastal" veterinary medicine, from treating saltwater toxicity to removing fish hooks and managing sensitive skin that flares up from sand and sea.

A Local’s Guide to Dog-Friendly Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay is iconic, but it has strict rules for pets. Here is how to enjoy the area without a fine.

Off-Leash Areas (The Rules are Strict!)

Woollahra Council is very strict about where dogs can go in Watsons Bay.

• Robertson Park: Dogs are prohibited here (near the playground and ferry). Do not risk it!

• Camp Cove Beach: Sadly, dogs are prohibited at all times.

• The "Secret" Spots: Locals know that for a good off-leash run, you are better off heading slightly south to Lighthouse Reserve (near the Macquarie Lighthouse) or Christison Park. These are just minutes away and offer safe, legal off-leash areas with stunning ocean views.

Dog-Friendly Dining

• The Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel: The outdoor deck is famous for a reason. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy a drink with your dog while watching the sun set over the harbour.

• Doyles on the Wharf: While the main restaurant is formal, the takeaway wharf area is great for grabbing fish and chips and sitting on the nearby grass (leashed) with your furry friend.

Critical Health Alerts for Watsons Bay Pets

Living on the peninsula comes with specific risks. Be aware of:

1. Fish Hook Injuries

With so many recreational fishermen at the Watsons Bay Wharf and Camp Cove, discarded hooks and bait are a major hazard.

• The Danger: Dogs love the smell of bait. Swallowing a fish hook is a surgical emergency.

• The Fix: Keep your dog on a short leash near the wharves and call us immediately if you suspect they have swallowed something.

2. Tick Paralysis (The Gap & Coastal Walk)

The scrub along The Gap and the coastal walk to Diamond Bay is prime habitat for the deadly Paralysis Tick.

• The Warning: We see tick cases from this specific walking track every year.

• Prevention: You need year-round protection. Ask our nurses which chews or collars are best for dogs who swim.

3. Heat Stress

The lack of shade on the coastal walk can be dangerous in summer.

• Tip: Avoid the walk between 10 am and 4 pm. The sea breeze can be deceiving—if the path is hot, your dog is at risk of heatstroke.