Treating patients @Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital

Recently, a female blue-tongue lizard was rushed to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital after suffering severe injuries from a dog attack. On arrival, our dedicated veterinary team discovered she was pregnant and, despite the extensive trauma she had endured, quickly sprang into action to give her and her babies the best possible chance. 

In an emergency procedure, our vets performed a lifesaving caesarean, delivering 20 tiny blue-tongue lizards. Each baby required urgent support, with our team carefully clearing their airways, stimulating breathing, and providing warmth in those critical first moments.

Tragically, their mother did not survive her injuries. However, in a remarkable outcome, all 20 babies survived. 

After a short period of close monitoring to ensure they were stable and strong, the young lizards were safely released back into the wild. 

This story is just one example of the diverse native wildlife patients treated at the hospital each day. From sea turtles to koalas, snakes and birds, every life is worth all the time and effort the veterinary team can give. Thanks to your support, the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital has treated nearly 160,000 patients since opening in 2004, helping to give native wildlife a second chance.

Links:

• https://wildlifewarriors.org/
• https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRvnxbMgmUT/

When Leslie, the koala, was rescued after being struck by a train, he was more than ten hours away from the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and suffering from serious, life-threatening injuries. He arrived with skull fractures and multiple traumatic injuries, needing urgent and intensive care.

From the moment he was admitted to the hospital, Leslie was given round-the-clock care. The hospital team carefully managed his pain, closely monitored his condition, and supported him every step of the way as he began to heal. Over the following weeks, Leslie slowly regained his strength and coordination, first moving more comfortably around his rehabilitation area and then climbing again as his confidence returned. His treatment and rehabilitation were continually adapted to ensure he remained safe, comfortable, and progressed well.

Thanks to the swift response of wildlife rescuers and the dedicated work of the hospital team, Leslie made a full recovery and was recently released back into the wild.

Right now, the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital is experiencing its busiest time of the year, which we often refer to as Trauma Season. Despite the ever-growing numbers and the costs involved in treating and caring for patients at the hospital, native wildlife is never turned away from help. No matter how small the patient, a life is worth all the time and effort the veterinary team can give. It’s your generous support that makes this lifesaving work possible.

Links:

• https://wildlifewarriors.org.au/