Every veterinarian signs up for lifetime learning, but those undertaking wildlife work must be particularly committed. Annabelle Olsson has made a career juggling full time work and study, and in the process, has refined crocodile treatment. Olsson graduated from the University of Sydney in 1985. She worked for a few […]
Clinical Zoo: Anaesthetising an ape
General anaesthesia is undertaken every day in veterinary practice, so much so that anaesthetising dogs, cats and horses is reasonably routine. But anaesthesia of captive wildlife – even for experienced keepers – takes extensive planning, and requires a team approach to ensure the wellbeing of the patient and the safety […]
Aiding endangered offspring
One thing zoos are very good at is neonatal care – a critical function when it comes to species conservation. The degree of intervention depends on the species and situation. In some cases, newborns need 24-hour care to ensure their survival. Others simply need a predator-free haven to survive. Kakapo […]
Clinical Zoo: Good health for a great ape
Cardiovascular disease can manifest in progressive heart failure or sudden cardiac death in humans and other animals. But diagnosing early heart disease is challenging when little is known about normal cardiovascular function in a particular species. That is why Taronga Zoo enlisted the expertise of veterinary cardiologist Niek Beijerink during […]
Rectal prolapse and foreign body in a magnificent tree frog
Amphibians are uncommon veterinary patients, partly thanks to restrictions on keeping them in certain areas, but also due to an overall decline in frog numbers worldwide. Even so, Stephen Cutter, at the Ark Animal Hospital in Palmerston, treats a handful of frogs every year. “Frogs are still common in NT […]