Saved from Ukraine Lioness Receives Essential Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
An adolescent female lion rescued from conflict-ridden Ukraine has received critical oral operation to remove a severely infected fang caused by an abscess.
The lioness arrived at a wildlife sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on March 14 following a fundraising effort by managing director the sanctuary's leader, who raised half a million pounds to support her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Rescue Center
The surgery was performed on Friday by veterinary dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has treated about 450 big cats.
"When I examined the lioness's oral cavity, I could see right away the damaged fang was highly inflamed," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the infection was due to a trauma sustained more than a year ago, leading to bacteria creating harmful substances inside the tooth.
"The approach I follow is animal oral health issues should be addressed in the safest, the least invasive and most secure manner," he explained.
The expert clarified that as Lira no longer required to hunt for food, extraction was the most "sensible and ethical solution."
The Animal Rescue Facility
The sanctuary reported the extracted tooth was 3.14 inches in length, with Mr Kertesz having to remove a accumulated infection from beneath the tooth and close the significant opening with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a dental procedure on the corresponding top fang, which was discovered to have a similar issue.
Briony Smith, manager at the facility, declared the operation was a "complete success."
She noted the team had spotted "a small lump on Lira's jawline" but it had been impossible to assess "the extent of the problem."
"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 the curator.
This vital operation represents a significant step in Lira's recovery after her arrival from the conflict area.
