A team of vets performed root canal dental work – on a huge tiger.
Marwell Zoo’s Amur Bagai tiger broke a tooth and required specialist treatment.
The 27 stone (170kg) cat is also elderly and has numerous ailments – making the operation risky.
With a jaw that can deliver a significant bite, the task can be daunting for even the most experienced dentist.
Carrie Arnold, animal team leader for Carnivores, contacted the zoo’s in-house veterinary team after noticing that the 11-year-old tiger had broken a tooth.
His age and known health conditions made the anesthesia and surgery higher risk – so it was critical that everything went according to plan.
The dental procedure is performed on Bagai the Amur tiger. (Marwell Zoo via SWNS)
From Talker
Dr. Elysé Summerfield-Smith, the zoo’s veterinarian, was the strategic lead for the procedure, in which veterinarian Rachel Perry performed a root canal, removed the dental pulp, sterilized the inside of the tooth and filled it with a sealant.
The Zoo’s team of registered veterinary nurses also monitored Bagai’s anesthetic and vital statistics.
Elysé said: “When we run processes like this, everyone involved has a responsibility for the lives of their colleagues as well as the life of the tiger.
“We’re all women and we all had an area of responsibility, so being able to work together, communicate well and perform our role as best as we could was critical.”
Marwell is fortunate to work with European Board of Veterinary Specialization (EBVS) and Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Specialist in Veterinary Dentistry, Rachel Perry of Perry Referrals, one of only eight specialists in veterinary dentistry in the UK Kingdom, too. as Referral Anesthesia and Dental Registered Veterinary Nurse Stacey Parker.
Carrie said: “Throughout my career in zookeeping, I have seen a steady increase in female-led achievements.
Bagai the Amur tiger. (Marwell Zoo via SWNS)
From Talker
“Working with and learning from different talents and strengths is such a privilege.
“It’s great to coordinate and manage such high profile proceedings alongside amazing women in the industry.”
The Zoo’s registered veterinary nurse, Georgina Constable-Dakeyne, said: “It’s wonderful to work in such a close-knit group of people where the safety and welfare of people and animals are so highly valued.
“I feel privileged to be surrounded by strong, resourceful and passionate women while working in what can be an extremely intense situation.”
Victoria Sissons, Animal Keeper said: “It was an amazing experience to be a part of and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from such an experienced and professional group of women.”
Bagai has since made a full recovery and is enjoying his food once again.
