07/19/2024
WRS recently had the privilege of performing an anesthetized dental procedure on Hansel, a rescued Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus) from Shy Wolf Sanctuary.
The patient had difficulty eating food other than gruel, was reclusive, and staff was concerned he was suffering from oral pain. On examination and dental radiographs, we discovered severe periodontal disease including multiple tooth root abscesses. This form of dental disease is extremely painful and is a common medical condition seen in the domestic dog and cat.
To treat the condition, an anesthetized examination, full mouth radiographs, and surgical extraction of more than 25 affected teeth was undertaken. The incision sites were closed with absorbable suture material and the patient was placed on a soft diet for 2 weeks. Much like a dental procedure in a domestic dog, local anesthetic blocks and multiple types of pain medication were administered to control post-operative pain. We are happy to report that Hansel did great after his procedure, has become more outgoing, is more active, and is eating well. Thank you to Harborside Animal Clinic for use of their hospital and dental suite, and Shy Wolf Sanctuary for entrusting us with the care of Hansel. ❤️🦊🦷🙏🏼
