Melbourne is one of Australia’s most pet-loving cities, with a wide network of veterinary clinics, emergency hospitals, and specialist centres providing world-class care. Whether you need a local family vet, advanced surgical treatment, or 24-hour emergency support, Melbourne offers excellent options. Here we highlight five fantastic vets in Melbourne trusted by pet owners across the city.
Our Top Five Melbourne Vets
Lort Smith Animal Hospital
Location: North Melbourne
Phone: +61 (0)3 9328 3021
Services: General veterinary care, surgery, emergency services, community programs
The largest not-for-profit animal hospital in Australia, Lort Smith is a Melbourne icon, offering accessible, compassionate care supported by a strong community focus.
U-Vet Werribee Animal Hospital (University of Melbourne)
Location: Werribee, Melbourne
Phone: +61 (0)3 9731 2000
Services: Teaching hospital, advanced diagnostics, emergency services, specialist referrals
Run by the University of Melbourne, this hospital combines cutting-edge veterinary research with clinical practice, serving both pets and livestock.
SASH Melbourne
Location: Bend Road, Carrum Downs (serving Greater Melbourne)
Phone: +61 (0)3 8781 3888
Services: 24/7 emergency care, specialist medicine, surgery, oncology
Part of the Small Animal Specialist Hospital group, SASH Melbourne brings the renowned SASH expertise to Victoria with state-of-the-art emergency and referral care.
Greencross Vets Melbourne
Location: Multiple clinics across Melbourne
Phone: 1300 473 369
Services: Preventive healthcare, vaccinations, surgery, pet wellness plans
One of Australia’s largest veterinary groups, Greencross provides convenient and reliable pet care in multiple Melbourne suburbs, backed by modern facilities.
Melbourne Veterinary Specialist Centre
Location: Glen Waverley & Essendon Fields
Phone: +61 (0)3 9803 8122
Services: Specialist referrals, oncology, neurology, surgery, emergency care
A specialist hospital providing advanced diagnostics and treatment, MVSC is highly regarded for its team of veterinary experts and cutting-edge facilities.
Areas Covered in Melbourne
- Inner Melbourne: North Melbourne, Carlton, Fitzroy
- East Melbourne: Richmond, Hawthorn, Glen Waverley
- West Melbourne: Werribee, Footscray, Sunshine
- South Melbourne: St Kilda, South Yarra, Carrum Downs
- Greater Melbourne: Dandenong, Essendon, Geelong corridor
Veterinary Services in Melbourne
- Routine health checks and vaccinations
- 24/7 emergency and intensive care
- Surgery and dentistry
- Advanced diagnostics (MRI, CT, ultrasound, X-rays)
- Oncology, cardiology, neurology, and specialty medicine
- Exotic and wildlife care
- Desexing and microchipping
- Wellness plans and pet insurance support
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a vet consultation cost in Melbourne?
Standard consultations usually cost AUD $70–$120, while emergency consultations may cost AUD $200 or more.
Do Melbourne vets provide 24-hour emergency services?
Yes, hospitals such as SASH Melbourne and U-Vet Werribee offer 24/7 emergency care.
Are vets in Melbourne licensed?
Yes, all veterinarians must be registered with the Veterinary Practitioners Registration Board of Victoria.
Do Melbourne vets treat exotic pets?
Yes, many clinics and hospitals provide services for birds, reptiles, rabbits, and wildlife.
Do Melbourne vets offer telehealth services?
Yes, several clinics now offer video consultations for non-urgent matters.
Can Melbourne vets issue travel certificates?
Yes, accredited vets can issue Animal Health Certificates for domestic and international pet travel.
Do vets in Melbourne offer payment plans?
Yes, many practices offer instalment options or work with VetPay to spread costs.
What vaccinations do dogs need in Melbourne?
Core vaccinations include C3 (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus) and C5 (which also covers kennel cough).
Do cats in Melbourne need vaccinations?
Yes, cats should be vaccinated against feline enteritis, calicivirus, and herpesvirus, with boosters as recommended.
What should I do in a pet emergency in Melbourne?
Head to the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital such as SASH Melbourne or U-Vet Werribee immediately.