Rescued Ukrainian Lion Undergoes Critical Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
An adolescent female lion saved from conflict-ridden the war zone has undergone critical oral operation to extract a severely infected canine tooth caused by an abscess.
The lioness arrived at a wildlife sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on March 14 following a campaign by director Cam Whitnall, who raised half a million pounds to fund her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Rescue Center
The procedure was performed on Friday by dentist an experienced animal dentist, who has cared for hundreds of large felines.
"When I examined Lira's jaw and mouth, I could see right away the damaged fang was highly inflamed," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the infection was due to a injury experienced over twelve months back, causing germs creating toxins within the fang.
"My philosophy is animal dental problems should be addressed in the safest, the most conservative and safest way," he said.
The expert clarified that as the lioness did not need to hunt for food, removal was the most "logical and humane option."
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The rescue center reported the removed fang was 3.14 inches in length, with Mr Kertesz having to extract a accumulated infection from under the fang and seal the significant opening with multiple absorbable stitches.
He also performed a root canal treatment on the opposing upper canine tooth, which was discovered to have a similar issue.
The curator, manager at the facility, said the operation was a "total triumph."
She noted the team had spotted "a minor swelling on the lioness's face" but it had been impossible to determine "the extent of the problem."
"The lioness will be somewhat sore to initially, but now that the infectious materials are out of her body, she will start to feel much better over the next few days," added Ms Smith.
This vital operation marks a major milestone in the lioness's healing process after her rescue from Ukraine.
