Ep 4. Donkey Dentist

In the fourth episode of the first season of Hanging with the Hendersons titled "Donkey Dentist," we follow the Henderson family as they explore unusual cases as veterinarians. This time around, they receive a call from a ranch owner who is worried about the health of his donkey, Puddin.

When the Henderson family arrives at the ranch, they are welcomed by a puzzled owner who narrates the unusual situation with Puddin, the donkey. Puddin had been refusing to eat, showing no interest in food, and being uncharacteristically quiet. Dr. Tony, Dr. Ross, and Dr. Ryan realize that something isn't okay with Puddin, and they immediately undertake a thorough examination.

The vet team performs a full check-up and realizes that Puddin has a painful mouth due to decaying teeth. The donkey needs some dental surgery, which is a tricky procedure, especially considering Puddin's size and strength. The family then prepares for the intricate operation by gathering their team and necessary equipment.

The veterinarians explain that donkeys and horses have similar dental structures, and due to Puddin's lack of dental care, the condition had worsened. He required a new set of teeth, but the insertion had to be done with caution. Dr. Ryan, the dental specialist, guides the process and starts by numbing the donkey's gums with injections.

As Puddin's teeth get removed, his nostrils begin to flare, and his breath becomes more strained. To counter this, a team member puts an oxygen mask over the donkey's mouth to ensure he gets enough air. The process takes nearly three hours, and the veterinary surgeons put a lot of precision to ensure Puddin receives the best possible care.

After the operation, the team monitors and keeps Puddin under observation until he wakes up fully. As soon as he regains consciousness, he's seen eating almost voraciously and even braying, showcasing his joy and appreciation for the successful dental operation.

The episode showcases the behind-the-scenes work involved in running an animal clinic, from the examination process to the delicate procedure of the dental surgery. It's a significant reminder of the importance of regular check-ups to detect and fix potential health issues in animals before they worsen.

Furthermore, the bond between the veterinarians and their patients is well highlighted in this episode. The kindness and care that the Hendersons practice go beyond just performing tasks as veterinarians, and they strive to offer a sense of comfort to the animals and their owners alike.

"Donkey Dentist" is an inspirational episode that shows how a family of veterinarians can use their passion and expertise to bring comfort, hope, and healing to their animal patients.