Emergency aid at Countryfile Live
30 August 2016
BSAVA are pleased to report that the PetSavers stand at the recent Countryfile Live show was a great success. Set in the magnificent grounds of Blenheim Palace, the show welcomed 125,808 visitors over the four days.
The charity were on-hand in the dog arena to educate the public about PetSavers plus volunteer vets, Susan Macaldowie and Julian Hoad, conducted around 100 dog health checks in exchange for a donation.
PetSavers presence at the show attracted high profile attention when the vets responded to a dramatic emergency rescue of an injured and distressed dog. On the Friday morning, Susan and Julian rushed to treat the dog, which was in a critical state having ruptured the cruciate ligament in his hind leg. With temperatures rising and the crowds building, it was not long before the dog became extremely distressed.
With news travelling around the show, members of The Kennel Club, hurried to carry bottles of water to cool the dog. With limited resources, the vets succeeded in lowering his temperature and after an hour of emergency care, they were able to stabilize him. When the dog was comfortable, transport was arranged to move him and his owner away from the showground.
The dog’s owner contacted PetSavers afterwards and thanked them for saving her dog. She said: “Without the help of your staff I think I could have had a dead dog. They really were life savers that day. They cooled him down, gave me advice about his cruciate, helped organise transport back to my car, lifted him in and made him comfortable.”
Sadly, a few days later PetSavers received further news. The dog had to have his injured leg amputated and was coping well on three legs. However, on the following Tuesday he lost the fight and died. His owner told us:
“On Tuesday evening he went out into the front garden (his favourite place) laid down and died. So although we are very upset over his untimely death, at least he died at home in his favourite spot.”
A sad end to an amazing story, but one that also demonstrates the dedication of our vets, whose swift action delivered a message at Countryfile Live; PetSavers save pets lives.