Resilient Goldfish Saved by Amazing Surgery

What happens when your dog or cat is sick? You go to the veterinarian right? What about your horse, bird, guinea pig, etc.? Off you go again. As guardians we rarely hesitate to do whatever it takes to get our pets on the mend. Why? Because we love them and would do anything for them!Goldfish One pet parent took this mantra to a new level when his goldfish became constipated.

Veterinarians at Toll Barn Veterinary Centre in North Walsham discussed other options, but the final decision was surgery, that’s right surgery on a goldfish. As reported by BBC News Norfolk, the operation would cost 300 pounds, which is roughly $450.

Dr. Faye Bethell, the veterinarian who performed the surgery, explained, “The goldfish was constipated because he had a lump blocking his bottom, rather than because of his diet or any other reason.” 

Dr. Bethell explained the surgery by saying, “We’ve got one nurse who bubbles anesthetic gas through a tube that goes in through its mouth and over its gills, and then we have a second nurse to monitor with a probe to check the heart rate.” The operation was completed after about an hour.

Bethell points out, “At the end of the day they’re all pets and everybody does have a commitment to their pet.”  Well put, we couldn’t agree more! We believe this just goes to show how close the bond can be. 

This isn’t the only fish with such a dedicated guardian. Click here to read about how one goldfish underwent brain surgery.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.