In an incredible tale of survival and healing, Archer, a dog living in Haines, Alaska, has defied the odds after being severely burned in a devastating fire.
When the flames engulfed his home, firefighters found the frightened pup surrounded by smoke and fire. In a panicked state, Archer bolted from the scene, leaving many wondering if he’d survive.
Miraculously, Archer was later discovered near the ocean and quickly rushed to a nearby vet. Given the remote nature of Haines, Alaska, where emergency veterinary services are sparse, Archer’s condition required immediate and expert care. Enter Dr. Michelle Oakley, the beloved star of Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet on Nat Geo WILD, known for her dedication to all animals in need.
However, Dr. Oakley was in California when the fire struck. That meant Archer’s rescue came with its own challenges: a grueling seven-hour drive through severe weather to reach the nearest clinic that could treat his serious injuries. But once Archer was stable, he returned to Haines to begin a long recovery under Dr. Oakley’s care.
“We started with bandage changes and set up a burn unit in my office in town since we needed a sterile environment where you can keep everything clean,” Dr. Oakley recalled to PEOPLE, outlining the special operation she created to help Archer recover.
But despite her expertise, Archer’s injuries were far more severe than expected. Dr. Oakley turned to a burn specialist at the University of California, Davis, who recommended a groundbreaking treatment: tilapia fish skin. This method, which involves placing the fish skin directly on the burn areas, has been shown to promote faster healing.
“The relief was instant,” Dr. Oakley said, noting how much better Archer felt after the fish skin treatment. With its scaly appearance, Archer soon earned the affectionate nickname “Archer the Dragonslayer,” and the treatment worked wonders on his severe burns, particularly on his face.
While Dr. Oakley’s care was provided free of charge, the local community of Haines rallied together to support Archer’s recovery. Residents pitched in to help cover additional medical costs for operations, laser therapy, and countless bandage changes.
Over the next few months, Archer’s transformation was nothing short of remarkable. He went from a terrified burn victim, with raw, pink skin and no fur, to a happy and healthy dog with only a small bald spot on his face, a reminder of the traumatic ordeal.
Dr. Oakley attributes much of Archer’s recovery to his own unwavering spirit. Despite the excruciating pain, Archer never once showed up to his vet visits without wagging his tail.
“Even though he was in a lot of pain, he never showed up to his countless vet visits without a tail wag,” Dr. Oakley shared, admiring the dog’s resilience.
Archer’s journey has also proved invaluable in helping other animals. Dr. Oakley now has extensive experience treating burn injuries, which will aid her in assisting other animals affected by fires in the future.
“This one patient is going to help me help so many animals,” Dr. Oakley stated, reflecting on the impact of Archer’s recovery on her career.
For Dr. Oakley, Archer’s case stands as one of the most fulfilling challenges she’s faced in her veterinary career.
“This case was one of the most satisfying cases I’ve taken on,” she concluded. “It’s been a true highlight.”
Archer’s story is not only one of incredible recovery but a testament to the power of community, innovation, and a fighting spirit.
