Ep 1. Teddy, Harvey and Duke
- February 28, 2018
In the first episode of season 11 of The Supervet, viewers are introduced to three new patients - Teddy, Harvey, and Duke. Teddy is a three-year-old Shih Tzu who was hit by a car and has a fractured pelvis. His owner is worried that he may never be able to walk again. Harvey is a seven-month-old Spaniel who has been experiencing problems with his front legs since birth. Duke is a Labrador who has severe osteoarthritis in both of his knees.
Dr. Noel Fitzpatrick, also known as The Supervet, is determined to help these three beloved pets. He starts with Teddy, performing a CT scan to assess the extent of his injuries. The results show that Teddy's pelvic bone is fractured in several places and that there is also damage to his hip joint. Dr. Fitzpatrick devises a plan for Teddy's surgery, which involves inserting two steel plates into his pelvis to stabilize the fracture. The surgery is complex and requires the use of a state-of-the-art 3D printer to create the perfect fit for Teddy's bones.
Next up is Harvey, who has a condition called carpal laxity, which causes the joints in his front legs to be loose and wobbly. Dr. Fitzpatrick explains that this condition can be corrected with the use of an external fixator, a device that will hold Harvey's bones in the correct position until they heal. The fixator is attached to Harvey's legs with pins, and he will need to wear it for several weeks. Despite the discomfort, Harvey makes a swift recovery and is soon able to run and play like a normal pup.
Finally, Dr. Fitzpatrick turns his attention to Duke, whose severe osteoarthritis has left him in chronic pain and unable to walk properly. The Supervet explains that he will perform a procedure called a biocartilage implantation, which involves implanting stem cells into Duke's knee joint to encourage the growth of new cartilage. The procedure is risky, as there is a chance that Duke's body will reject the stem cells, but Dr. Fitzpatrick is hopeful that it will be successful. The surgery is a success, and Duke is able to walk without pain for the first time in years.
Throughout the episode, viewers are given an insight into the close bond between pets and their owners. Teddy's owner is beside herself with worry, but is comforted by the knowledge that he is in the best hands with Dr. Fitzpatrick. Harvey's family are delighted to see him bounding around again after his surgery, and Duke's owner is moved to tears by the transformation in her beloved dog.
As always, Dr. Fitzpatrick's skill, knowledge, and compassion are evident throughout the episode. He explains complex medical procedures in a way that is easy for viewers to understand, and his kindness and empathy towards both pets and their owners is clear to see. Teddy, Harvey, and Duke all receive the highest level of care from The Supervet and his team, and their stories are both heartwarming and inspiring.
Overall, the first episode of season 11 of The Supervet is a must-watch for anyone who loves animals and wants to learn more about the amazing work that veterinary surgeons do. Teddy, Harvey, and Duke all face challenges, but with Dr. Fitzpatrick by their side, they are able to overcome them and live happy, healthy lives.