Tyson on presentation.

By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator

AT Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, stories of courage and healing unfold every day, but some leave a lasting impression on both our hearts and our commitment to care. Tyson, a spirited 6-year-old dachshund, is one of those stories.

Tyson came to us as an emergency, presenting with a rapidly worsening wound on his lower back and tail. What initially seemed like a simple wound was found to be quite severe having become infested with maggots. Fly larvae, commonly referred to as maggots, can quickly colonise open wounds, feeding on the skin and causing significant pain, infection, and tissue damage.

Recognising Tyson’s distress, Dr. Omnia and Dr. Camille acted swiftly. He was immediately given pain relief, and the affected area was carefully clipped and cleaned to remove the maggots and prevent further infection. The wound was quite open and close to the rectum, so any surgery to close the wound may have caused complications. 

A groundbreaking treatment was used to allow the skin to heal over time without surgery, Phovia a fluorescent light treatment. Phovia is a non-invasive, light treatment that combines a special gel containing chromophores with an LED lamp emitting blue light. When applied to the affected skin, the chromophores in the gel are activated by the lamp’s blue light, releasing fluorescent light energy. This energy penetrates the skin, boosting its natural regeneration processes and potentially reducing healing time by up to 50%. What’s remarkable about Phovia is its pet-friendly approach—no sedation is needed, and it is well-tolerated by even the most nervous of patients.

Tyson has undergone three Phovia treatments to date and is showing remarkable progress. His wound is healing well, and his once-dimmed spark is returning, much to the delight of his loving family. Tyson’s case highlights not just the challenges that maggot wounds can pose but also the importance of timely, innovative veterinary care.

Thanks to the prompt and skilled care of our team, Tyson’s condition was treated without the need for a surgery.

For pet owners, Tyson’s story serves as a reminder to be vigilant, especially during warmer months when flies are more active. Promptly addressing any wounds, no matter how minor they seem, can prevent complications like maggot infestation.

At Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital, we remain committed to embracing advanced treatments like Phovia to provide the best care for our furry patients. Tyson’s resilience inspires us, and his story underscores the incredible bond between pets, their families, and the veterinary professionals who stand by them every step of the way.

Here’s to Tyson—a true champion of healing and hope.