Choosing the right Pet Insurance is one of the best ways for pet owners to protect their furry friends in the event of an accident or illness. It allows them to focus on what truly matters: their pet’s recovery. Unfortunately, pets may face various health issues throughout their lives – some minor and easy to manage, while others may be more serious.

This article highlights our latest inspiring story of pet bravery in the face of adversity.

Maisie’s Story

When a pet is unwell, it can be one of the most difficult things to go through. On Christmas Day 2023, Maisie the Cocker Spaniel was taken to her out-of-hours vets as her owners noticed something was wrong. Maisie hadn’t been her usual joyful self, as she was off her food and lacking energy. The vet noted that she had a bit of a fever and an increased breathing rate, but after some supportive treatment, she improved, and Maisie was sent home.

After a few days, Maisie’s condition had deteriorated, so her owners wisely decided to take her to the vet once again as she was struggling to breathe and sounded wheezy. After an ultrasound, the vet diagnosed Maisie with Pyothorax.

What is Pyothorax?

Pyothorax is the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity, which is the area between the lungs and the inner walls of the ribs. The source of the infection is rarely found but potential causes include:

  • Penetrating wounds, such as a bite.
  • Internal wounds to the oesophagus (gullet) or trachea (windpipe).
  • Migrating foreign bodies, such as grass seeds.
  • Spread of an infection from the lungs.
  • Secondary to cancer.

The severity of these signs can vary, although some dogs can become very poorly rather suddenly.

Helping Maisie Over The Worst

Maisie had a sample of fluid taken from her chest cavity for examination in a procedure called thoracocentesis. While the vets were working hard to decide on the best treatment for Maisie, she was placed on oxygen to support her breathing.

Maisie had a sample of fluid taken from her chest cavity for examination in a procedure called thoracocentesis. While the vets were working hard to decide on the best treatment for Maisie, she was placed on oxygen to support her breathing.

After this initial treatment, the brave Maisie was sent to a specialist where she had a few more examinations. After a CT scan, lung surgery, and a chest cavity flush, Maisie was fitted with a chest drain so any further build-up of fluid could easily drain away without requiring more surgery. After a few more weeks on antibiotics (and with lots of TLC from the vets and nurses), her breathing improved and she was finally well enough to be discharged home to her loving family.

Maisie’s Recovery

Maisie has shown true bravery throughout her treatment. She has had to go through so much at only two and a half years old, not only physically but also emotionally, being away from her pet parents. But she was in safe hands with her veterinary team who always ensured Maisie received the best care, along with some much-needed cuddles.

Needless to say, Maisie’s owners were outstanding throughout the whole process. They have been in her corner every step of the way, and the dedication they have shown to Maisie during her treatment has been utterly heartwarming. Thanks to them, Maisie could receive the treatment she needed, and – with Vetsure – they had peace of mind that her care would be covered.

Julie, one of Maisie’s Pet Parents, said “What happened to Maisie was probably the most heart breaking experience the family has had to endure. She is 110% the dog she was before the pyothorax, and we are so grateful to have had the chance to save her life.”

Maisie’s owners visiting her for the first time when she was in intensive care with her favourite toy ‘Stevie’.

cocker spaniel in a jumper after undergoing surgery

Maisie modelling one of the many jumpers she wore to keep warm in the winter after having her fur shaved.

After six months of treatment and recovery, Maisie has been awarded the Vetsure Pet Bravery Award for her amazing effort and determination. The award also extends to her owners for always showing love and support throughout! She is now back to her larger-than-life self and we couldn’t be more pleased!

Pet Insurance

Pet Insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that, if your beloved pet were to fall ill or have an accident, their treatment would be covered. With a Vetsure Accident and Illness policy, you can claim for an unlimited number of unrelated conditions each year, only paying the excess amount once per condition. Take a look at our different types of pet insurance policy and get a quote today.