Rescued Ukrainian Lion Undergoes Essential Surgery
The Big Cat Sanctuary
An adolescent lioness saved from conflict-ridden the war zone has undergone critical dental surgery to remove a badly decayed canine tooth resulting from an infection.
The lioness was brought to The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on March 14 after a campaign by managing director the sanctuary's leader, who collected £500,000 to fund her and several other lions from Ukraine.
The Rescue Center
The procedure was carried out on Friday by veterinary dentist Peter Kertesz, who has treated about 450 big cats.
"Upon inspecting the lioness's oral cavity, I could see immediately the broken tooth was severely infected," stated Mr Kertesz.
He thought the dental issue was caused by a injury sustained more than a year ago, causing bacteria producing harmful substances inside the tooth.
"My philosophy is non-human dental problems need to be treated in the safest, the least invasive and safest way," he explained.
The expert clarified that as the lioness no longer required to hunt for food, removal was the most "logical and humane option."
The Animal Rescue Facility
The sanctuary reported the extracted tooth was 3.14 inches in length, with Mr Kertesz having to remove a pocket of pus from beneath the tooth and seal the large wound with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a dental procedure on the corresponding top fang, which was discovered to have a similar issue.
The curator, manager at The Big Cat Sanctuary, declared the procedure was a "complete success."
She said the team had observed "a minor swelling on Lira's jawline" but it had been difficult to assess "the extent of the problem."
"Lira will be a little uncomfortable to begin with, but now that the toxins are removed from her system, she will start to feel much better over the next few days," added Ms Smith.
This vital operation represents a significant step in the lioness's healing process after her rescue from Ukraine.
