Pet Services in Hornsby
Hornsby is a family-friendly suburb with good access to bushland and parks, making it popular with dog owners who appreciate the balance of suburban amenities and natural areas. The area sits on the edge of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, providing extensive walking trails and outdoor spaces for pets and their owners to explore.
Pet Services in Hornsby
Welcome to Hornsby, one of Sydney's most pet-friendly suburbs where natural beauty meets suburban convenience. Nestled on the doorstep of the magnificent Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Hornsby offers pet owners an enviable lifestyle with extensive bushland trails, well-maintained dog parks, and quality veterinary services. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, you'll find that Hornsby's unique position as a gateway to nature makes it ideal for dogs who love outdoor adventures. With three veterinary clinics servicing the local community and excellent recreational spaces like Hornsby Park, Lisgar Gardens, and Crosslands Reserve, your furry family members are well catered for. The suburb's family-friendly atmosphere extends to its four-legged residents, with plenty of green spaces for exercise and socialisation. From weekend bushwalks through native Australian bushland to casual afternoon visits to local dog parks, Hornsby provides the perfect balance for pet owners seeking both suburban amenities and natural outdoor experiences for their beloved companions.
Veterinary Care in Hornsby
Hornsby is well-serviced with three veterinary clinics, ensuring your pet has access to quality healthcare close to home. When choosing a vet in Hornsby, consider factors such as location relative to your home, opening hours that suit your schedule, and the range of services offered. Most local clinics provide comprehensive care including routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, surgical procedures, and preventative health programmes. It's worth registering with a vet before an emergency arises, as established patients often receive priority during urgent situations. Ask potential clinics about their emergency protocols and after-hours care – knowing where to go when your regular vet is closed is crucial for Hornsby pet owners. Given the suburb's proximity to bushland and national park areas, discuss tick prevention strategies with your vet, as paralysis ticks can be prevalent in bushy environments. Your Hornsby vet should also advise on snake awareness during warmer months when you're exploring local trails. Many clinics now offer online booking systems and reminder services for annual vaccinations and heartworm prevention, making it easier to stay on top of your pet's health needs. Building a relationship with a local veterinary practice ensures continuity of care and familiarity for your pet, reducing stress during visits.
Pet Life in Hornsby
Hornsby's dog parks are best visited during early mornings or late afternoons, particularly in summer when temperatures are cooler and the bushland surroundings provide welcome shade. Hornsby Park is especially popular with the local dog community, offering excellent opportunities for socialisation. Lisgar Gardens provides a more intimate setting, perfect for smaller dogs or those still building confidence, while Crosslands Reserve offers spacious areas for energetic play. Always carry water for your pet, particularly when exploring the walking trails near Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The local pet community is friendly and active, with many dog owners forming regular walking groups – a great way to help your dog socialise while you connect with fellow pet lovers. During spring, be mindful of increased wildlife activity in bushland areas, and keep dogs on-leash where required. Hornsby's shopping precinct has several pet-friendly cafés where well-behaved dogs are welcome at outdoor tables. Remember to bring waste bags and use the disposal bins provided throughout the suburb's parks and reserves to keep Hornsby clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Top Rated Vets in Hornsby
The highest-rated veterinary clinics in Hornsby based on real customer reviews
Veterinary Clinics in Hornsby
Professional veterinary care
Hornsby Veterinary Hospital
📍 6 Leonard St
Established 1962 (63 years in practice). Treats small exotics (guinea pigs, rats, mice, birds). Afterpay and VetPay. Gap Only billing. Washing and grooming. Behavior consultations.
Hornsby Heights Vet Hospital
📍 21 Ethel St
LARGE ANIMALS & COMPANION PETS - Located at 21 Ethel St, Hornsby NSW 2077, just off Galston Road. Phone: (02) 9476 3307. Weekday hours only 8am-5pm, closed weekends. Caters for both large animals and companion pets. 9 bays of parking available. VetPay payment plans available. Different from Hornsby Veterinary Hospital at 6 Leonard Street.
Greencross Vets Hornsby
📍 Entry via Hunter Lane, Unit 4/6-18 Bridge Rd
Part of Greencross Vets network (Australia's leading veterinary group). Located inside Petbarn at Unit 4, 6-18 Bridge Road (corner of George St and Hunter Lane), Hornsby, NSW. Phone: +61 2 8914 3501. Email: greencross.hornsby@greencrossvet.com.au. Four veterinary consult rooms, two dedicated surgical theatres. Latest diagnostic equipment including ultrasound and x-ray. Online booking available.
Local Pet Resources in Hornsby
Essential pet services and facilities near you. From emergency vets to off-leash dog parks.
Dog Parks
3 locations in Hornsby
Hornsby Park
Lisgar Gardens
Crosslands Reserve
Emergency Vets
2 locations in Hornsby
Hornsby Veterinary Hospital
North Shore Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre (in Artarmon, closest 24-hour facility)
Pet Stores
4 locations in Hornsby
Hornsby Park
Fagan Park
Brooklyn area waterfront
Various cafes along Pacific Highway with outdoor seating
Emergency Veterinary Care
In case of a pet emergency in Hornsby, these clinics provide 24/7 urgent care services. Always call ahead to confirm availability.
Know a great pet resource in Hornsby that's not listed? Let us know
Practical Information for Hornsby
Everything you need to know about accessing pet services in Hornsby
Parking
- •Hornsby has a large Westfield shopping centre with multi-level paid parking, plus council car parks near the train station. Street parking is available on surrounding residential streets, generally easier to find than in inner Sydney suburbs.
Public Transport
🚆 Trains
- Hornsby Station is a major hub on the North Shore & Western Line, approximately 37km north of Sydney CBD with frequent express trains taking around 40-50 minutes. Multiple bus routes service the area connecting to surrounding suburbs.
Typical Pricing
Prices vary by provider. Contact businesses directly for accurate quotes.
Local Tips
- ✓Hornsby's dog parks are best visited during early mornings or late afternoons, particularly in summer when temperatures are cooler and the bushland surroundings provide welcome shade. Hornsby Park is
Planning Your Visit to Hornsby
Most pet service providers in Hornsby recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons (school holidays, Christmas, Easter). Contact facilities directly to discuss your pet's specific needs and confirm availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about pet services in Hornsby
Are there any dog boarding facilities in Hornsby?
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Currently, there are no dog boarding facilities directly in Hornsby. However, pet owners can find boarding kennels and doggy daycare options in nearby suburbs such as Asquith, Waitara, and Thornleigh. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially during school holidays and peak periods.
Where can I find an emergency vet near Hornsby?
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Hornsby has 3 veterinary clinics that can assist with pet health needs. For after-hours emergencies, you may need to travel to dedicated emergency animal hospitals in nearby areas like North Ryde or Terrey Hills. It's wise to save the contact details of your local Hornsby vet and the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic in your phone before an emergency occurs.
What are the best off-leash dog parks in Hornsby?
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Hornsby offers several excellent parks for dogs including Hornsby Park, Lisgar Gardens, and Crosslands Reserve. Check with Hornsby Shire Council for specific off-leash areas and times, as some parks have designated zones or time restrictions. Always ensure your dog is under effective control and remember to bring bags to clean up after your pet.
What should I look for when choosing a dog boarding facility near Hornsby?
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When selecting a boarding kennel near Hornsby, look for facilities that are clean, well-ventilated, and staffed by experienced carers. Check that they require proof of vaccinations (C5 for dogs), offer adequate exercise and socialisation, and provide regular updates during your pet's stay. It's always best to visit in person before booking to ensure you're comfortable with the environment.
What vaccinations does my dog need for boarding near Hornsby?
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Most boarding facilities near Hornsby require dogs to be up-to-date with the C5 vaccination, which covers canine distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and kennel cough (Bordetella). The kennel cough component typically needs to be administered at least 2 weeks before boarding. Always check specific requirements with your chosen facility and keep your vaccination certificates handy.
How much does dog boarding cost near Hornsby?
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Dog boarding facilities in suburbs surrounding Hornsby typically charge between $40-$80 per night, depending on the size of your dog and the level of care provided. Premium services with additional playtime, grooming, or luxury accommodations may cost more. Many facilities offer discounts for multiple dogs from the same family or extended stays.
How do I get to pet services in Hornsby using public transport?
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Hornsby Station is a major transport hub located approximately 37km north of Sydney CBD, with frequent express trains taking around 40-50 minutes. Multiple bus routes also service the area, connecting to surrounding suburbs where additional pet services are located. If you're travelling with your pet, remember that on Sydney trains, dogs must be muzzled or carried in a container, and travel is free outside peak hours.
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