Equine experts examine giraffe under anaesthetic

Dick Vet Equine team investigate swelling on giraffe’s face.

Specialist vets from the Dick Vet Equine Hospital were part of an international team of experts brought in to anaesthetise and examine a giraffe from Edinburgh Zoo with an unusual swelling on its face.

Complex procedure

The team made extensive plans to ensure the procedure, which took less than an hour, ran smoothly and safely for the 800kg giraffe and everyone involved.

RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia Dr Rob Ward and Dr Dóri Szabó from the Hospital for Small Animals anaesthetised the eight-year-old giraffe, named Gilbert. 

European Specialist in Equine Dentistry Dr Rebekah Kennedy, RCVS and European Specialist in Equine Surgery Dr Richard Reardon, ACVS and ECVS Specialist in Equine Surgery Dr Mattie McMaster and Equine Technician Fiona Perry from the Dick Vet Equine Hospital then examined of the giraffe’s mouth, teeth and gums.

We were able to determine that the cause of Gilbert’s facial swelling was food packing in his right cheek. It was a massive team effort and the standard of care provided to Gilbert by everyone involved was exceptional.

Mattie McMaster ACVS and ECVS Specialist in Equine Surgery, Dick Vet Equine Hospital

With no dental or jaw abnormalities identified, the team suspect that the swelling may have a behavioural cause, especially since Gilbert quickly refilled his cheek pouch with food as soon as he had recovered from the anaesthetic.

Positive outcome

Although a definitive diagnosis wasn’t reached, the team is celebrating a successful outcome. Gilbert has made a smooth recovery since his procedure and the investigations have shown no reason to suspect that the giraffe is experiencing pain or discomfort. 

With ongoing training, keepers hope to help Gilbert improve his oral hygiene by regularly flushing the cheek pouch with water.

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