PATIENT OF THE WEEK
THE STORIES BEHIND THE PATIENTS AT THE AUSTRALIA ZOO WILDLIFE HOSPITAL
Lokie the Black Flying Fox Pup - 24th October 2016
Age: 1 hour old Sex: Male Weight: 88gms
Found: Lokie's mother Connie, was found on the ground with a suspected spinal injury after she flew into a window in Coomera, Queensland.
Transported to: Connie was transported to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital by a specialised wildlife carer from the Australian Bat Clinic.
Veterinary Assessment: After a thorough examination, Dr Tania confirmed that Connie had suffered a very serious spinal injury however, she also discovered that Connie was pregnant and almost ready to give birth. Dr Tania rushed her into surgery for an emergency caesarean section.
Treatment: Dr Tania delivered young Lokie by caesarean section and she was impressed with how well he was breathing on his own. Dr Tania placed Lokie on an IV and administered fluids and glucose. After loosing his mother to trauma injuries, orphaned Lokie will be placed with a specialised wildlife carer.
Outcome: Lokie will be cared for by a wildlife carer until he is fully grown and can be released back into the wild away from any potential threats.
AZWH Fact: Black Flying-foxes are the largest species of flying-fox in Australia. They can fly at 35 - 40 kilometres per hour and may travel over 50 kilometres from their camp to a feeding area.
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