Last week, our Head of Imaging, Pablo Melendez Algeria, visited Dudley Zoo to assist with a very special patient – Joao, a Sumatran tiger.
Joao had developed an abscess on his side, promoting the zoo’s veterinary team to carry out further investigations. Our expertise was called upon to support their efforts in diagnosing and treating Joao the tiger.
Joao, the Sumatran tiger.
The experienced veterinary team at Dudley Zoo safely anaesthetised Joao, allowing our Head of Imaging, Pablo, to carry out an ultrasound scan of the abscess. The scan revealed a small piece of foreign material inside, which was causing a localised infection.
Using the ultrasound as a guide, Pablo carefully removed the object with forceps, It turned out to be a grass seed – something we commonly see in dogs, but quite unusual in a tiger!
Joao made a smooth recovery from his anaesthetic and minor procedure, and he’s now doing very well under the expert care of the dedicated team at Dudley Zoo.
Pablo shared his thoughts on the experience: ‘It was incredible to spend the morning working alongside such an outstanding team of professionals. Thank you all for this exciting and rewarding opportunity.’
We’re truly grateful to the team at Dudley Zoo for collaborating with us at Chestergates Veterinary Specialists. It’s always a privilege to use our skills to help animals of all shapes, sizes – and species!
