When the unexpected strikes and the need for emergency care hits home, we are just like any other pet parent – worried, emotional, and doing everything we can to help our beloved animals. At Canberra Veterinary Emergency Services (CVES), we see emergencies every day. But no amount of experience or training can prevent them from happening to us, too.
Our Senior Nurse and Vet Manager, Megan, recently found herself on the other side of an emergency when her family’s dog, Sally, faced a frightening medical crisis.
A Panicked Call from Home
It was late in the afternoon during Megan’s shift at CVES when she received an urgent phone call from her parents – who were interstate. Something was seriously wrong with her beloved fur niece, Sally. Even today, the exact cause remains unknown, but what mattered most in that moment was getting Sally help.
Megan quickly arranged for extra team support to ensure all patients at the hospital were still cared for, then rushed to meet her parents in Michelago, where they were already en route to Canberra. The moment she saw Sally, she knew something was terribly wrong. One look at her eye, and Megan, with her emergency and critical care (ECC) experience, understood there was only one option: she had to get Sally back to CVES immediately.
From Nurse to Pet Parent
Back at the hospital, Megan’s colleagues – her work family – were there for her. Not just as fellow veterinary professionals, but as friends offering support during an overwhelming moment.
A full examination revealed concerning injuries. Sally’s right eye was severely proptosed (bulging), with visible muscle detachments, significant swelling, and deep bruising. The next step was clear: X-rays were needed to assess whether there was structural damage to her skull. Thankfully, no fractures were found, but despite that relief, there was only one way to ensure Sally’s long-term wellbeing – her eye had to be removed.
For Megan, it was a heartbreaking reality to accept. But in that moment, she was both a devoted pet parent and a highly skilled veterinary nurse. She helped consult with the veterinarians, ensuring the best possible treatment plan for Sally. And when the time came for surgery, she didn’t just step aside – she stepped up.
Providing Care in Every Role
During the procedure, while our veterinarians performed the delicate enucleation (eye removal) surgery, Megan stayed by Sally’s side, carefully monitoring her under anaesthesia. She was the first familiar face Sally saw when she woke up, wrapping her in a warm embrace as she recovered.
Thanks to the expertise and dedication of the CVES team, Sally’s surgery went smoothly, and her recovery began immediately. Over the next few days, she quickly became a favourite among our staff, winning hearts with her resilience and sweet personality.
With Megan’s approval, Sally even received an honorary promotion to “Client Care Assistant Manager,” proudly “helping” our front-desk team during her stay.
A Happy Ending for Sally
The best part of this story? Sally never let losing an eye slow her down. Back at home, she’s just as mischievous and full of life as ever – chasing horses, stealing eggs from the chicken coop, and bringing endless joy to her family.
Megan’s journey reminds us that emergencies can happen to anyone – even veterinary professionals. But what matters most is the love, dedication, and advocacy we provide for our pets in their time of need.
At CVES, we’re here for you, just as we were for Megan and Sally. Because in the end, whether we’re veterinarians, nurses, or pet parents – we all want the very best for the animals we love.
