Tina the Asian Elephant Recovering from Dental Surgery
Tina, an Asian elephant and resident of Belfast Zoo, is recovering after undergoing dental surgery.
Tina was treated after her keepers noticed that she was in some discomfort. On closer inspection, zoo vet, Michael Griffith notices that one of the tusks had broken and was sticking into Tina’s gum, causing the elephant pain and contributing to an infection.
Tina, who is 46 years old and on her sixth set of teeth, was treated quickly by Dr Peter Kertesz, a specialist zoo vet from London who has experience in treating animals including whales, giant pandas and elephants.
Dr Kertesz said that it was essential to smooth off the sharp surface of Tina’s tooth to prevent infection. He added that the surgery had gone very well and he was very pleased and privileged to be involved with Tina’s care.
Zoo curator, Alyn Cairns, said that the zoo had decided to care for elderly female elephants a few years ago and this represents different challenges, as the elephants have greater health needs. Cairns said that working with specialists, such as Dr Kertesz, is very important.
Tina is now recovering well.
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