07/05/2026
🌟 Patient Spotlight: Atlas 🌟
Atlas presented to us on June 9th as a transfer from Bridges Park Animal Hospital in Morehead City. Earlier that afternoon, Atlas had been diagnosed with severe heatstroke, arriving with a temperature too high to register and showing significant neurological symptoms. The team at Bridges worked quickly to stabilize him for transport, and his owners got him to us as fast as possible.
When Atlas arrived, he was in critical condition. He was covered in petechiae (small bruises caused by an inability to clot normally), vocalizing, and unaware of his surroundings. Knowing that every minute mattered, our team immediately began aggressive treatment. Atlas received multiple fluid boluses, multiple plasma transfusions, continuous cardiac and blood pressure monitoring, and extensive bloodwork monitoring.
The following day, Atlas developed acute aspiration pneumonia and complications related to an elongated soft palate which also may have complicated his heat stroke event. He had to be intubated to protect his airway and provided oxygen support which required one on one intensive care monitoring.
Our overnight team worked tirelessly to support Atlas through this setback. By the following morning, he was already showing signs of improvement Atlas made it clear that he was ready to start moving again! After being immobile for several days, he decided he wanted to go for a walk. Throughout the day, he continued to improve, was weaned from oxygen support, began eating on his own, and his bloodwork showed encouraging progress.
Over the following days, with the love of his mom, the dedication of his doctors, and the around-the-clock care from his nursing team, Atlas continued to exceed expectations. He quickly became known for his love of soft beds, good food, and his beloved Lamb Chop toy.
Today, Atlas is back home with his family near Raleigh, NC, and continues to do well.
Atlas, we are so proud of you. Thank you for reminding us why we do what we do. We love you and wish you a continued recovery filled with treats, cuddles, and adventures. ❤️🐾
