Ep 6. Hubble Trouble

In "Dr. K's Exotic Animal ER" season 4 episode 6, titled "Hubble Trouble," we are introduced to a number of exotic animals who have found themselves in need of medical care. The show follows the team at the Broward Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital as they tend to the needs of these unique patients.

In this episode, we meet a number of animals, including a parrot who is suffering from an eye infection, a red-eared slider turtle who needs surgery to remove a tumor, and a bearded dragon who is struggling to breathe. The cases are diverse and challenging, but the team at the hospital is up to the task.

One of the standout cases in this episode involves a snuggly sugar glider named Hubble. The tiny marsupial has been experiencing some serious health issues, including lethargy, lack of appetite, and difficulty breathing. Hubble's owner is understandably worried, and brings him into the hospital to see Dr. K and her team.

The team begins by performing a thorough exam of Hubble, which reveals some concerning symptoms. Hubble's heart rate is low, his breathing is labored, and his fur looks unkempt. The team suspects that Hubble may be suffering from pneumonia, which is a serious condition in small animals like sugar gliders.

To confirm their suspicions, the team performs a series of diagnostic tests on Hubble. They take X-rays of his lungs and use a stethoscope to listen to his breathing. The results are inconclusive, so they decide to perform a bronchoscopy – a procedure where a tiny camera is inserted into Hubble's lungs to get a better look at what's going on.

The bronchoscopy reveals that Hubble has a severe case of pneumonia, and there is a large amount of fluid in his lungs. The team immediately begins treatment, which includes administering antibiotics and fluids. They also give Hubble a nebulizer treatment to help open up his airways and make breathing easier.

Over the next few days, Hubble's condition slowly begins to improve. His appetite returns, and he becomes more active and alert. The team is thrilled to see him bouncing back, and they continue to monitor him closely to ensure he makes a full recovery.

Elsewhere in the hospital, the team is busy tending to a variety of other exotic animals. They perform surgery on the turtle to remove the tumor, and it goes smoothly. The parrot's eye infection is treated with antibiotics, and he starts to regain his vision. And the bearded dragon's breathing issues are resolved with the help of medication.

As always, the team at the Broward Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital proves to be skilled, compassionate, and dedicated to the wellbeing of their patients. "Dr. K's Exotic Animal ER" continues to be a fascinating look into the world of exotic animal medicine, and this episode is no exception.