Kluet, Adelaide Zoo’s 29 year old Critically Endangered Sumatran Orangutan has undergone a routine dental checkup.
With help from Dr Greg Miller who has been a long time supporter of the Animal Health Centre, alongside Dr Alex Caraballo, both from North Adelaide Dental Care who both kindly donated their time.
“Kluet’s not exactly enthusiastic about vet visits. He’s very good at picking up on what we’re looking to do and has a history of using various strategies to avoid us by staying out in his habitat or burying himself under his favourite blanket,” said Zoos SA Acting Senior Veterinarian, Dr David McLelland. “Our keeping team have been building on their great relationship with Kluet – he voluntarily presented his arm for injection with anaesthetic which made for a very stress-free experience for him.”
This was Kluet’s fourth dental appointment in as many years.
“We’re pleased with how the procedure went and we’re happy with his overall health,” Dr McLelland added.
The Animal Health Centre’s public viewing area proved a popular spot on the day, with visitors getting a rare glimpse of the behind-the-scenes care that goes into looking after Adelaide Zoo’s most charismatic residents.
Background
Dr Greg Miller is also the Chairman of the Australian Dental Foundation and both the ADF and NADC have been long time sponsors of the Animal Health Centre at Adelaide Zoo. As a not-for-profit conservation charity Zoos SA is grateful for the generous support of our corporate partners.
