PET OF THE MONTH

Lester

Lester first came to the clinic as a young puppy in June 2007 for a post purchase examination. Lester showed no abnormal signs at this time. He appeared to be a happy healthy puppy. Lester returned one month later for follow up boosters and routine examination, where he appeared to be growing and acting as a normal 4 month old chocolate Labrador would. Though he was a bit smaller in size, all signs were normal. 

Lester then returned 2 months later for his routine canine neuter with pre-anaesthetic blood work and intravenous fluids. On the morning of surgery, a blood sample was taken to test Lester’s organ functions. The results of the test showed that Lester’s kidneys were not functioning as they should be. It was decided Lester would not undergo anaesthetic but that he would be left on intravenous fluids to flush his body, and that he would be sent home on a reduced protein diet.

Lester was to return within 8 weeks and retest his blood work with the intent to undergo anaesthetic and be neutered safely on a high fluid rate to flush his body.

Lester’s kidney functions had improved and the doctor felt it was safe to neuter Lester with a positive outcome.

Lester recovered well from the surgery and we are very thankful that the hospital policy is to always run blood work before the patient undergoes surgery, even if the pet appears happy and healthy!