By Claire Lamond | Lionside co-ordinator
The last few months have been as busy as always!
Last time we said that Maxy the caracal had required emergency surgery and was recovering well. Unfortunately nothing ever goes to plan and his wound became infected. Maxy required a 2nd surgery which of course prolonged his recovery. Just when we thought we were out of the woods, he decide to eat a lot of grass and was returned to the vet for a 3rd emergency surgery! Now fingers (and toes) are crossed that he will remain healthy! We are so greatful to have such attentive and loving staff who did everything to aid in his recovery as well as a very accepting Maxy.
Acinonyx our white lion required a health check, which is not as simple as just taking him to the vet. Luckily Dr Jana who assisted with Napoleon was able to come out and give him a full health check under anaesthetic. Acinonyx woke up well, felt a bit drunk but was happy to be back with his bestie Napoleon. His health check came back clear, he does need to lose some weight as we expected, his nails needed a manacure but otherwise he is doing great.
Siberian tiger Fushan also required a full health check after displaying some negative behaviours towards the electric fence. Fushan has always hated the electric fence so we cut the grass short in order that he cannot hear any grass touching the fence as this would infuriate his sensitive ears. When his behaviour did not improve we observed for any indications of pain/stress etc and the staff saw nothing but organised the vet to come just in case. Meanwhile we also contacted an animal communicator to see if we could shed any light on his increasing behaviour change, unfortunately although it was interesting to hear what the communicator said we still felt it was necessesary to have the vet rule out anything major. Dr Jana did a full blood work up, we checked teeth (following dental surgery at Oonderstepoort previously), we checked claws, joints etc. All tests came back clear, however Fushan has an extremely high testosterone level which will explain the behaviour changes. We are looking into different ways to counteract and reduce his testosterone levels, without steralization as this would almost certainly increase his weight, and in turn cause too much pressure on his already fragile hip..
Some great news is that our cheetahs have been loving utilising the running machine more! Once the days are cooler its easier to encourage the cheetahs into chasing the running machine lure! They have more energy and are much more enthusiatic, as well as providing the best enrichment for the cheetahs, running has so many physical and medical benefits!!
They hyenas love their completed swimming pool and spend a lot of time swimming and splashing around!!!
The volunteer village is very close to completion! Now we are busy with the final touches, decorating the rooms! Look forward to showing you all the finished village soon!!
There is always so much to do and get done, but we are blessed with an amazing support network. We want to thank you all for believing in us, supporting us, and lovimg us and the animals!
As a non-profit, we are always in need of a little support so once again, we would like to thank each and every one of you for donating your hard earned money to our cause. We truly mean it when we say we couldn't do this witout you!
By Claire Lamond | Lionside co-ordinator
By Riana Van Nieuwenhuizen | Project Founder and Owner
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