Rescued from Ukraine Lion Undergoes Critical Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
A three-year-old female lion saved from war-torn Ukraine has received critical oral operation to remove a badly decayed canine tooth caused by an infection.
The lioness was brought to The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on 14 March following a fundraising effort by director the sanctuary's leader, who raised ÂŁ500,000 to support her and four other rescued lions.
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 Lira's jaw and mouth, I could see right away the damaged fang was highly inflamed," stated Mr Kertesz.
He believed the dental issue was due to a trauma experienced more than a year ago, leading to bacteria producing toxins inside the tooth.
"The approach I follow is animal dental problems should be addressed in the most predictable, the most conservative and safest way," he explained.
The expert clarified that as the lioness did not need to hunt for food, removal was the most "logical and humane option."
The Animal Rescue Facility
The rescue center reported the removed fang was 8cm (3.14 inches) long, with the dentist having to remove a pocket of pus from under the fang and seal the large wound with multiple absorbable stitches.
He also performed a dental procedure on the opposing upper canine tooth, which was also found to be infected.
Briony Smith, manager at The Big Cat Sanctuary, said the operation was a "total triumph."
She noted the staff had observed "a minor swelling on Lira's jawline" but it had been impossible to determine "the extent of the problem."
"The lioness will be a little uncomfortable to begin with, but now that the toxins are removed from her system, she will begin improving over the next few days," commented Ms Smith.
This vital operation represents a significant step in the lioness's healing process after her arrival from the conflict area.