This is Argus, who is without question the sweetest Chow Chow who ever lived. Argus’ pet parents noticed late one night that he was retching and his abdomen seemed to be distended. They called VCA Highlands Ranch Animal Specialty and Emergency Center, and the client service representative on duty asked them to come in right away. When they arrived at the clinic, veterinary technicians were there at the ready with a gurney to rush Argus to the treatment area, as they were worried that he had a twisted stomach (GDV). Their hunch proved to be correct, the overnight emergency team took x-rays which confirmed the diagnosis and at the same time they started immediate treatments that stabilized him for surgery. A short time later, the emergency surgeon on call, Dr. DiGiovanni, and her emergency anesthetist had arrived and were ready to start Argus’ lifesaving surgery. With the skill and care of his surgery team, Argus made it through the procedure and initial recovery with flying colors. But then, the next morning, his recovery seemed to be going in the wrong direction. Through the quick thinking of his care team, x-rays were taken and he was found to have pneumonia post operatively. He was also suspected to have bacteria in his bloodstream (sepsis) due to his weakened immune system after surgery. He was managed by the ICU/Critical Care team of incredible doctors and nurses led by Dr. Williams, our Critical Care specialist, and emergency doctors, Dr. Young, Dr. Feinzig, Dr. Cromwell and Dr. Winborne for another 5 days, with around the clock care. With the dedicated care of his doctors and nursing staff he was able to overcome his life threatening infection and go home with his wonderful family! Argus’ story does not end there however. During his initial emergency exam a small black mass was found on the surface of his tongue. Once Argus had fully recovered from his GDV surgery and subsequent pneumonia, Argus came to see our Dentistry service. Dr. MacLellan peformed a
We are pleased to announce that we are now open 24 HOURS for emergencies.
Have an emergency? Need Urgent Care? We are available 24/7 Monday - Friday. And overnight 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 a.m. Friday & Saturday nights. Give us a call at 303-740-9595.