This little opossum was rescued from the middle of the road 5 months ago, and while he was doing well initially, he became very lethargic, weak, and pale on a recent Saturday. His owner brought him to see us the following Monday and he was very thin, with pale mucous membranes. We checked his feces for parasites, but nothing dramatic was found. His bloodwork showed severe anemia, but no fleas or other ectoparasites were present. The most likely cause of this anemia given the other findings are stomach worms called Physaloptera. He was given fluids with iron and dextrose to boost his system and started on dewormers and antiparasitics as well as antibiotics. His owners opted to take him home and provide support feeding and home care through the night.
He returned the next day for a much-needed blood transfusion. We had previously contacted a few opossum owners to see if they were available to have their pet act as a blood donor. This is a big deal for small animals, and we greatly appreciate our client who volunteered her little girl as a hero donor for this guy. Our donor opossum is a sweetheart, and seemed happy to help another opossum in need. She was treated like a queen and given fluids to ensure she stayed hydrated and had no negative effects from her sacrifice for another.
While his donor was having her blood drawn, he was prepped for the transfusion with an IV catheter placed into his left cephalic vein and premedicated to prevent transfusion reaction. He was given some fluids with dextrose while awaiting his transfusion. 15 ml of whole blood was given slowly over the course of 30 minutes through a pediatric blood filter and administration line, with constant monitoring of his respiration and heart rate throughout the process.
He was hospitalized overnight and his bloodwork the following day showed his anemia was greatly improved thanks to the transfusion, and he went home on continuing care and medications to eradicate the suspected stomach worms. We look forward to seeing him for his 2-week progress exam and watching him return to his normally spunky self.
About Us
Our exotic animal hospital is dedicated exclusively to the care of birds, exotic small mammals, reptiles, and even fish! We can offer everything your pet needs for a healthy and happy life, from wellness care and grooming to diagnostics and dentistry, but we can also provide emergency care during our opening hours, along with more specialized treatment for referred patients.