VETS were called into the Welsh Mountain Zoo to operate and remove a cataract from the eye of a California Sea Lion.
Vets from the International Zoo Veterinary Group (IZVG), a European Specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology - based at University of Bristol Veterinary School, and a vet from Mochdre Vets, collaborated to operate on the eye of Roonie.
Claudia Hartley (front left), Dr Richard Harvey & Karen Archer (right)
During the procedure, carried out under safe working practices at the Colwyn Bay site, Roonie was sedated.
Kim Wood, director of Living Collections of the Welsh Mountain Zoo, said: “Life for our animals remains the same here at the zoo despite the challenging times we find ourselves in, and of course, they still require the same levels of support and care as they would any other time.
"Our dedicated keepers remain committed to delivering the highest standards of animal welfare, and acted straight away to ensure that Roonie received the professional veterinary care and attention needed.”
Claudia Hartley with Roonie
The operation was successful and Roonie has since recovered well and is back to her usual self.
Kim added: "Even though we are closed, our running costs including all essential and emergency veterinary care remain the same.
"Roonie’s operation was an unexpected costly expense, however, the operation was arranged without hesitation, as our animal’s welfare remains our priority.
Claudia Hartley with Roonie edit
"With a continued loss of revenue of £500,000 between April and May, lockdown is having a significant effect on our charity.
"We have been overwhelmed by the amount of support we have received in response to our fundraising campaign and without the donations received, we may not have been able to carry out such vital works.
"We’d like to express our sincere thanks those that have supported us to date, and ask that people continue to do so in the coming weeks as we endeavour to make our way through this very difficult period.”
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