Success stories

Clancy’s Journey

Managing Immune-Mediated Keratitis

Dr. Matt has a special passion for equine care, so when we were contacted about Clancy, a beautiful and friendly horse, we were thrilled to be involved in his case. Clancy had been referred to us due to a persistent corneal inflammation (keratitis) that had not responded to standard treatments. To determine the underlying cause, Clancy underwent a general anaesthetic for a corneal biopsy. The results confirmed a diagnosis of Immune-Mediated Keratitis, an autoimmune condition in which the horse’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own corneal tissue. This condition, while not uncommon in horses, requires ongoing management.

Clancy will now be on lifelong immunosuppressive therapy. Fortunately, this treatment is well-tolerated and administered locally to the eye, ensuring minimal side effects. With continued care, Clancy is expected to enjoy a long, healthy life galloping freely in the paddocks and, of course, insisting on a few well-earned scratches from Dr. Matt at every follow-up visit.

Squirtle’s Story

Restoring Sight to an Eastern Long-Necked Turtle

At Vet Vision, we are passionate about caring for Australia’s native wildlife.  Squirtle, an eastern long-necked turtle, was brought to us by a local wildlife rescue organisation. She was found to have bilateral corneal opacities, cloudiness in both eyes, which significantly impaired her vision and jeopardised her chances of survival in the wild. Dr. Sarah conducted a thorough examination and diagnosed Squirtle with calcareous degeneration, a condition caused by mineral deposits within the cornea. Initial treatment involved the application of topical eye drops designed to break down and dissolve the mineral buildup. This approach was effective in her left eye; however, the deposits in her right eye were too dense to respond to medical management alone.

To restore vision in her right eye, Squirtle underwent a minor surgical procedure called diamond burr debridement, performed under local anaesthetic. The procedure was a complete success, both eyes healed beautifully. Squirtle’s vision significantly improved, and she was able to be released back into the wild where she belongs.

Sampson's Story

Sampson the Schnoodle is one of our long-term diabetic patients

His journey with us began when his owner noticed subtle but concerning changes, he no longer chased his favorite ball and was hesitant to walk down stairs. When initial treatments from his regular vet proved ineffective, Sampson was referred to us for further evaluation. During our clinical examination, we discovered that Sampson was developing cataracts, a common complication in diabetic dogs, with approximately 75% affected within the first year of diagnosis. Unlike age-related cataracts, cataracts caused by diabetes tend to progress rapidly. This is due to elevated glucose levels altering the osmolality of fluids in the eye, drawing excess fluid into the lens which will eventually cause the lens to rupture which can happen in a matter of weeks. Fortunately, Sampson’s cataracts were detected early, and his lenses remained intact. We were able to perform successful phacoemulsification (cataract surgery), restoring his full vision.

Sampson continues to visit us for regular check-ups, and he never comes without his beloved emotional support monkey. He’s an absolute joy to have in the clinic, and we always look forward to seeing him!