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Welcome to Grove Lodge Veterinary Group
Spike's Story
Spike
“Spike was named because of his spikey ears that are usually upright and alert. He is a lovely lively Jack Russell terrier. As with many terriers, he is quite an intelligent dog with a mind of his own. When he was a puppy he was well-known for escaping from the back garden! My neighbours would hear me calling his name and setting off with a lead to retrieve him. He didn’t go far and would return from these escapades ready for a meal and asking for a walk.
I read an article in a magazine recently that suggested if you want to keep fit, you should go dog walking. In particular, they recommended Jack Russells as a breed that are always energetic and keen to walk. That is certainly true of Spike. He loves his walks and he loves Ashdown Forest... that is until recently, when things went horribly wrong after what we later discovered to be an encounter with an adder.
At this point, I should like to say a huge thank you to our vet at Forest Lodge, who was absolutely superb, together with all the the staff there, who have been so caring. Spike is now quite well known as he had to go to the animal hospital at Worthing, where Emma and her team nursed him. So a sincere thank you to everyone involved.” - Sue Rodericks (Spike’s owner)
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Spike is a 10 year old Jack Russell, who came to us six weeks ago as a major emergency. His owner had noticed a black area of bruising in the groin. On closer inspection, the vet treating him found several puncture marks over his right shoulder and severe bruising all over his body and concluded that Spike had been bitten by a snake. We put Spike on fluids and medication to stabilise him and make him more comfortable, but he was very weak and anaemic.
The following day, Spike was transferred to our main hospital, Grove Lodge in Worthing, for a blood transfusion. Blood tests showed he had some liver damage and a low platelet count, causing the dramatic bleeding and bruising under his skin. His red cell level on arrival at the hospital, was very low and decreasing rapidly and he was very listless. Spike underwent intensive nursing care around the clock. Immediately after his transfusion (from one of our volunteer donor dogs) Spike’s demeanour began to change. This little dog stayed in the hospital for 11 days, improving daily and demonstrating his bravery and fighting spirit. Everyone at Forest Row and the hospital grew very fond of this little chap who showed such strength.
Now, after a long road to recovery, Spike’s blood parameters are consistently heading in the right direction. His bruising has nearly gone and he is much happier. Spike is a little dog, but with a big personality and a huge amount of courage.
Spike truly deserves this award.