Rescued from Ukraine Lion Undergoes Essential Dental Operation
The Big Cat Sanctuary
A three-year-old female lion rescued from war-torn Ukraine has undergone critical oral operation to remove a severely infected canine tooth caused by an infection.
Lira was brought to a wildlife sanctuary in Smarden, Kent on 14 March after a fundraising effort by director the sanctuary's leader, who collected half a million pounds to support her and four other rescued lions.
The Big Cat Sanctuary
The surgery was carried out on Friday by dentist Peter Kertesz, who has treated about 450 big cats.
"Upon inspecting the lioness's oral cavity, I could see right away the damaged fang was severely infected," said Mr Kertesz.
He thought the dental issue was caused by a injury experienced over twelve months back, causing germs creating harmful substances inside the tooth.
"My philosophy is animal oral health issues should be addressed in the most predictable, the least invasive and most secure manner," he said.
The expert explained that as Lira no longer required to catch prey, removal was the most "sensible and ethical solution."
The Animal Rescue Facility
The rescue center reported the removed fang was 3.14 inches in length, with Mr Kertesz having to remove a pocket of pus from beneath the tooth and seal the significant opening with seven dissolving sutures.
He also performed a dental procedure on the opposing upper canine tooth, which was discovered to have a similar issue.
The curator, curator at the facility, declared the procedure was a "complete success."
She noted the staff had observed "a small lump on the lioness's face" but it had been impossible to determine "the extent of the problem."
"Lira will be somewhat sore to initially, but now that the infectious materials are removed from her system, she will start to feel much better over the coming days," commented Ms Smith.
The successful surgery represents a major milestone in the lioness's healing process after her arrival from the conflict area.