Worrying wound to a White Rhino Heifer
An injured White Rhino Heifer is reported on a private game reserve. A Heifer is a young female who has had any offspring. She was unable to bear weight on her left hindlimb, most probably injured by the adult bull on the property.
The attending veterinarian called in STS Founder Dr. Johan to assist. At the reserve x-rays were taken of the affected limb. The results conclude a small fracture and a rupture to one of the main tendons of the hindlimb. Unfortunately the skin was also found to be broken, making the fracture an open fracture. This increases the probability of infection and a worse prognosis.
However, the team decided to still take a chance and treat her by cleaning the wound, casting the limb so she could take weight, and giving her strong antibiotics for 2 weeks. After 2 weeks we will take off the cast and re-evaluate the wound, tendon and fracture, to see how she has responded to treatment. We will update you with any development of the poor White Rhino heifer.
We would like to thank all our supporters and as ever Ford South Africa and Craghoppers for their continuing support.
Why are Rhinos so important?
Rhinos play an important part of our ecosystems and without them these environments would not be the same. Rhinos are keystone species meaning they greatly influence their habitats. One way in which Rhinos do this is by wallowing in muddy puddles. This allows watering holes to stay open, allowing not only Rhinos but all species access to water.
The act of wallowing also has a positive impact on the surrounding soils making them more fertile. This is due to the mud drying up on their skin and falling off in the surrounding environment. This mud is fertile alluvial soil which spreads far and wide with the Rhinos movements. This enriches soils allowing for flora species to thrive.
How can I support Saving The Survivors?
Please donate if you can to ensure that we are always there to answer that call and doing all we can to protect the remaining Rhinos. You can support our work by becoming a monthly or one off donor. Please help us to do more great work like this, and save the Rhino from extinction. Donate here.
You can also support us by following us on social media. Share our stories to give these vulnerable animals a voice. With your help we can raise awareness of the issues these animals face and make a change, creating a more positive future for them. Check out our other supporters views on facebook. Check out our instagram here.
Thank you from all of team Saving The Survivors for your support!