Ep 4. When Guinea Pigs Fly

When Guinea Pigs Fly is the fourth episode in the second season of Heartland Docs, DVM. The show follows Dr. Ben and Dr. Erin, a husband and wife veterinary team, as they travel the countryside of Nebraska to help animals big and small.

In this episode, the doctors are faced with a unique challenge: a guinea pig who has lost the use of her back legs. The guinea pig, named Gidget, belongs to a young girl named Olivia who is devastated by her pet's condition. The doctors evaluate Gidget and discover that she has a spinal injury. They discuss treatment options with Olivia and her family, but they are hesitant to put the guinea pig through surgery.

Meanwhile, the doctors are also called to a farm where a cow is having trouble giving birth. They quickly diagnose a dystocia, a difficult or obstructed labor, and must act quickly to deliver the calf safely. It's a tense moment as time is of the essence to prevent any harm to the mother or newborn.

Back at the clinic, the doctors try physical therapy to help Gidget regain her leg function. They work closely with Olivia, who is determined to do whatever it takes to help her beloved pet. The doctors also offer some insight into the unique challenges of treating pocket pets like guinea pigs and how their small size can sometimes make injuries more difficult to treat.

In addition to Gidget, the doctors also have an unusual patient in a rooster with an eye infection. They work to identify the source of the infection and prescribe a course of treatment that includes topical medications. The owners are delighted to see their rooster starting to improve.

The episode also highlights the doctors' strong connections with their clients. Dr. Ben and Dr. Erin have developed close relationships with many of the families in their community, and they take the time to catch up with them and their pets between appointments.

As the episode draws to a close, the doctors check in on Gidget to see how she's progressing. Olivia is amazed at the progress her pet has made and overjoyed to see her running and playing like her old self again. It's a testament to the doctors' dedication and expertise, as well as the determination of a young pet owner to help her furry friend.

Overall, When Guinea Pigs Fly is a heartwarming episode that showcases the expertise and compassion of the doctors as they work to help animals in need. It's a reminder that even the smallest pets can make a big impact on our lives, and we owe it to them to do everything we can to keep them healthy and happy.