The Local Vet Dover Heights Families Trust

Dover Heights offers some of the best views in Sydney, but it lacks local services. When it comes to finding a vet in Dover Heights, you want a clinic that feels like it's part of the neighbourhood - not a trek across the suburbs.

Welcome to Vaucluse Vet

Vaucluse Vet is the veterinary hospital of choice for the 2030 postcode.

Located just a short drive from Military Road, we are the closest full-service clinic for most Dover Heights residents. Whether you are walking the Federation Cliff Walk or playing fetch at Rodney Reserve, we are your local partners in pet health.

Why Dover Heights Locals Choose Vaucluse Vet

We are neighbours. We understand the specific needs of pets living on the cliffs.

1. Your "Local" Clinic:

Since Dover Heights is purely residential, we are your nearest commercial vet hub. You don't need to fight the traffic into Bondi Junction or Double Bay. We are right on your doorstep in Vaucluse with easy, stress-free parking.

2. Tick Prevention Experts:

Dover Heights is a "Tick Hotspot" due to the coastal scrub along the cliff walks. We see more tick paralysis cases from dogs walked along the cliffs than almost anywhere else. We know the early signs, and we have the antiserum ready.

3. House Calls for Hillside Homes:

We know that transporting large dogs or anxious cats can be difficult. Our team offers dedicated house call services to Dover Heights, bringing expert care right to your living room.

A Local’s Guide: Dog-Friendly Dover Heights

The scenery is unbeatable, but you need to know where to go (and where to avoid).

Best Off-Leash Areas

• Rodney Reserve: This is the "local's secret." A massive, flat sporting field that is perfect for throwing the ball. It’s popular with Dover Heights dog owners for a reason.

• Hugh Bamford Reserve (North Bondi/Dover Border): Great for high-energy dogs who need to run off the lead on the grassy slopes.

• Raleigh Reserve: A spectacular cliff-top park with off-leash privileges. Caution: Please ensure your dog has excellent recall, as the cliffs are unfenced in parts.

Dudley Page Reserve

Famous for its postcard view of the Harbour Bridge.

• The Rules: Dogs are permitted, but check the signage for on-leash requirements during sporting events.

• The Vibe: It’s the perfect spot for a sunset walk, but bring water—there is very little shade!

Critical Health Alerts for Dover Heights

The cliffs and coastal winds bring unique health risks to your pets.

1. The Federation Cliff Walk (Tick Danger)

The stunning timber boardwalk connecting Dover Heights to Watsons Bay is lined with native coastal scrub.

• The Threat: This scrub is the natural habitat of the Paralysis Tick and potential snake activity in summer.

• The Advice: If you walk this track, your dog must be on a top-tier tick preventative. Check them thoroughly after every walk, focusing on the ears and front paws.

2. Heat Stress at Dudley Page

Dudley Page Reserve is essentially a giant, exposed plateau. It catches the sun all day.

• The Risk: We often see dogs with heatstroke who have been playing fetch here at midday.

• The Fix: Avoid the reserve between 11 am and 3 pm in summer. The cool sea breeze can mask how hot the ground actually is.

3. Grass Seeds

The long grasses in Hugh Bamford Reserve and the edges of Rodney Reserve are prime territory for grass seeds.

• The Injury: These arrow-shaped seeds burrow into ears, paws, and noses, causing abscesses and intense pain.

• The Check: Inspect your dog’s paws and inside their ears after every run in long grass.