Saved from Ukraine Lioness Undergoes Critical Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
A three-year-old female lion saved from conflict-ridden the war zone has undergone vital oral operation to extract a severely infected canine tooth caused by an infection.
The lioness was brought to a wildlife sanctuary in Kent, England on March 14 following a fundraising effort by director Cam Whitnall, who collected half a million pounds to support her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Rescue Center
The procedure was performed on Friday by dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has treated about 450 big cats.
"When I examined Lira's jaw and mouth, I could see immediately the broken tooth was highly inflamed," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the dental issue was caused by a injury sustained over twelve months back, leading to bacteria creating toxins within the fang.
"The approach I follow is animal dental problems need to be treated in the safest, the most conservative and safest way," he said.
The expert explained that as Lira did not need to hunt for food, removal was the most "logical and humane option."
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The rescue center said the removed fang was 8cm (3.14 inches) long, with Mr Kertesz having to remove a pocket of pus from beneath the tooth and close the large wound with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a dental procedure on the corresponding top fang, 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 minor swelling on the lioness's face" but it had been difficult to determine "how serious the condition was."
"Lira will be somewhat sore to initially, but now that the infectious materials are removed from her system, she will begin improving over the coming days," added Ms Smith.
The successful surgery represents a significant step in Lira's recovery after her rescue from Ukraine.
