Category: Southern White Rhino
Dr. Johan examines lame Rhino Bull
The STS team in South Africa were called in this week to look at a White Rhino Bull suffering from chronic lameness in his right hindlimb.
The hock area was severely swollen on the inside of the limb, and although the Bull is still weight bearing, he does have a clear limp on the leg.
The Rhino was darted from the chopper and Dr. Johan proceeded to take radiographs of the joint while his assistant Dot monitored the patients breathing and oxygenation.
Fortunately no fractures could be seen on radiographs, only severe soft tissue swelling on the inside of the limb, with some changes in the joint itself.
He probably suffered severe blunt trauma to the joint which damaged ligaments and lead to instability of the joint with subsequent formation of osteoarthritis. We are discussing potential options with the owner to try and get him more comfortable.
This is just another example of our ongoing commitment to support Rhino custodians. Looking after these endangered animals is expensive, the security costs alone are crippling for many Rhino caretakers. By providing our veterinary services free of charge we are lightening the load and ensuring these selfless people can continue to safeguard Africas remaining Rhinos.
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Thank you as ever to our main partner Craghoppers for providing the kit and clothing that keeps our teams safe and comfortable in all the conditions Africa throws at us!