Saved Ukrainian Lioness Undergoes Critical Dental Operation
A Wildlife Rescue Center
A three-year-old female lion saved from conflict-ridden Ukraine has received critical oral operation to remove a severely infected canine tooth caused by an abscess.
The lioness arrived at a wildlife sanctuary in Kent, England on 14 March after a campaign by director Cam Whitnall, who collected half a million pounds to support her and four other rescued lions.
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The surgery was performed on Friday by veterinary dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has cared for hundreds of large felines.
"Upon inspecting Lira's jaw and mouth, I could see immediately the damaged fang was severely infected," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the infection was caused by a injury sustained over twelve months back, leading to bacteria producing harmful substances within the fang.
"My philosophy is animal dental problems should be addressed in the safest, the least invasive and most secure manner," he explained.
The expert clarified that as the lioness did not need to hunt for food, extraction was the most "logical and humane option."
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The rescue center said the removed fang was 3.14 inches in length, with Mr Kertesz having to extract a accumulated infection from under the fang and close the large wound with multiple absorbable stitches.
He additionally conducted a dental procedure on the opposing upper canine tooth, which was also found to be infected.
The curator, curator at the facility, said the operation was a "total triumph."
She said the team had spotted "a small lump on Lira's jawline" but it had been difficult to determine "how serious the condition was."
"Lira will be somewhat sore to initially, but now that the toxins are removed from her system, she will begin improving over the coming days," commented Ms Smith.
This vital operation represents a major milestone in Lira's recovery after her rescue from Ukraine.
