Bella’s Remarkable Recovery After Complex Udder Surgery
CONTENT WARNING: This story contains images of surgery and postoperative wounds that some viewers may find graphic.
Bella is a much-loved pet goat who came to see our vets a few years ago with an enlarged mammary gland. Despite treatment with antibiotics and pain relief, the gland continued to grow over time and eventually began causing Bella discomfort, rubbing against her body and becoming prone to bleeding. We suspected the enlargement was associated with Bella experiencing pseudopregnancies, along with recurrent mastitis and scarring within the udder.
After being examined again by vet Callum, Bella’s wonderful owners agreed to proceed with a mastectomy, with our vet surgeon Max performing the procedure to remove the affected udder.
Before surgery, we performed a blood test to check Bella’s packed cell volume (PCV) and platelet levels. Unfortunately, her results were very low (severe anaemia), making surgery too risky without first improving her blood levels.
Thankfully, Bella’s owners had other goats who could help! With the amazing teamwork of our Lead Nurse Lisa and Max, almost three units of blood were safely collected from the donor goat and transfused to Bella.
The transfusion was successful, and Bella’s blood levels improved enough for her to safely undergo surgery. It was truly an all-hands-on-deck effort, with many members of our team helping to prepare Bella and ensure everything was ready.
The surgery itself was long and technically challenging, but with Lisa’s extensive experience in goat anaesthesia and her close monitoring throughout the procedure, Max was able to successfully remove the affected udder.
Bella recovered well from surgery, with a drain placed to aid her recovery and pain relief provided to keep her comfortable.
Bella’s story is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through teamwork, experience and a whole lot of care. From the blood donation from her fellow goat to the dedicated team who cared for her throughout surgery and recovery, everyone played an important part in helping this much-loved pet get back on her feet.
We’re very happy to say that Bella is doing well, and we think she’s one pretty special goat!
