At Animal Emergency Service Hawthorn East, we see all kinds of emergencies walk – or be carried – through our doors. But every now and then, a case like Milo’s reminds us just how powerful collaboration across veterinary teams can be.
A 14-week-old West Highland White Terrier pup named Milo recently found himself in more trouble than he could chew. After digging under the fence to visit a neighbour, he was met not by friendly tail wags, but by Alfred – a fully grown, 35kg German Wirehaired Pointer who didn’t appreciate uninvited guests. The encounter left Milo badly injured, shocked, and struggling to breathe.
Milo’s family acted quickly, rushing him to Greencross Vets in North Ringwood. The team there promptly administered pain relief and conducted an initial assessment. Recognising the severity of Milo’s condition, they referred him to Melbourne Animal Specialist Hospital (MASH) for more advanced diagnostics and care, and notified them ahead of his arrival so they could prepare for this fragile little patient.
At MASH, Milo received further pain management, anti-nausea medication, and underwent ultrasound scans to better understand the extent of his internal injuries. However, due to staffing limitations at the time, Milo’s critical care needed to be continued elsewhere.
This is where the incredible support of Ready Vet Go came into play. Understanding the risks associated with transporting a patient who required oxygen support, MASH coordinated with Ready Vet Go for an emergency ambulance transfer. Within 30 minutes, Milo was safely en route to us here at Animal Emergency Service Hawthorn East.
Our team was prepped and ready when Milo arrived. He was immediately assessed, stabilised, and admitted into our intensive care unit. X-rays confirmed the worst: two fractured ribs, severe pulmonary contusions, a pneumothorax (air in the chest cavity), and signs of trauma to the diaphragm. It was a critical situation, and his chances were 50/50.
Milo spent the next 24 hours in our ICU receiving oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and strong pain relief. Despite the trauma his tiny body had endured, this brave little Westie began showing signs of improvement. By the next day, he was stable enough to transition out of the oxygen chamber and into a regular cage, continuing his recovery with a slow-release fentanyl patch.
By Sunday morning, against the odds, Milo was well enough to return home. He’s now resting, healing, and no doubt gearing up to celebrate a very special occasion – his buddy Noah’s birthday.
Milo’s survival was nothing short of a team effort. From Greencross Vets North Ringwood, to MASH, to Ready Vet Go, and finally to us at AES Hawthorn East, every vet, nurse, and technician who touched this case played a vital role in his recovery.
We are incredibly proud to be part of a veterinary community that comes together so seamlessly in times of crisis. Milo’s story is a testament to what can be achieved when clinics collaborate with one shared goal: giving every animal the very best chance.
To Milo – we’re so glad you’re back home. And to our amazing colleagues across Melbourne – thank you. This win belongs to all of us.
