Martin was recently called upon to examine a collapsed Boer goat. Martin found her unable to stand or move her head. She had decreased awareness and was “star gazing”, this is where the eyes roll backwards and upwards. She also had muscle tremors, blindness and a depressed demeanour. With these symptoms Martin suspected Vitamin B1 deficiency, which causes Polioencephalomalacia (PEM). In simple terms this means softening of the brain. Left untreated the condition is rapidly fatal and delayed treatment leads to permanent disability.

The first picture shows the goat 24 hours after starting treatment.

Martin started intravenous therapy and this was carried out twice daily for three days. Fortunately she responded well and returned to her herd. The second picture shows Martin giving his patient a little something during a final check up.