Ep 8. A Perfect Storm

Dr. K's Exotic Animal ER season 5 episode 8 titled "A Perfect Storm" follows the busy day-to-day life of Dr. K and her team of veterinary professionals as they tackle a series of complicated and challenging cases at the Broward Avian and Exotics Animal Hospital.

The episode begins with Dr. K and her team treating a pet iguana named Spike who is suffering from a respiratory illness. Spike's owner noticed that he was not eating, lethargic, and had difficulty breathing, so they rushed him to the animal hospital. The team quickly assesses Spike's condition and administers the appropriate medication and treatment. The challenge is compounded due to Spike's size and the unique anatomy of reptiles, making diagnosing respiratory issues challenging.

Later in the episode, Dr. K is called upon to treat a sugar glider named Tuffy. Tuffy's owners noticed that he was not eating properly and was showing signs of lethargy. After a thorough examination, Dr. K discovers that Tuffy has a dental infection. She explains to Tuffy's owners that dental issues are prevalent in sugar gliders due to their diet of high sugar, which can lead to plaque buildup, resulting in dental problems. Dr. K's team performs an emergency dental procedure, and Tuffy is on the road to recovery.

The episode also follows the story of a hedgehog named Daisy. Daisy's owner noticed that she was limping and unable to move one of her front legs. Upon examination, Dr. K discovers that Daisy has a dislocated shoulder. The staff performs anesthesia on Daisy to manipulate the shoulder back into place. A fitting cast is put on in order for the healing process to begin.

Towards the end of the episode, Dr. K is presented with a unique patient, an alligator snapping turtle named Brutus. Brutus had been hit by a car and is experiencing difficulty breathing. Dr. K and her team perform a CT scan on Brutus to assess his condition which was similar for alligator snapping turtles. They discover Brutus has a punctured lung whichis serious for the species. Dr. K along with her team perform a surgical intervention process to help in draining fluid from Brutus's chest. Brutus's owners are immensely grateful for their efforts.

The episode concludes with Dr. K and her team successfully treating all of their patients and sending home healthy, happy animals. "A Perfect Storm" showcases the challenges and expertise required of a veterinary professional, especially when dealing with exotic animals. The episode captures the intense emotions involved as pets are treated, which are a mix of joy, stress, happiness and anxiety. Viewers of the show see that Dr. K and her team's deep passion and commitment to animals are unwavering, regardless of the situation.