Orphaned Limpopo white rhino saved after life-saving surgery in Pretoria

A five-month-old orphaned white rhino from The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo has been saved after undergoing life-saving surgery at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science in Pretoria North.

According to an article by Pretoria Rekord, The 125kg calf, experiencing severe abdominal pain, was referred in August to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital after ceasing to drink milk. Upon arrival, a team of veterinary specialists conducted an ultrasound, revealing severe gastrointestinal issues, including a swollen small intestine and a potentially fatal blockage.

UP spokesperson Sashlin Girraj explained that the calf was diagnosed with colon impaction, a condition typically seen in horses but critical in this case. The veterinary team performed an exploratory laparotomy to address the blockage.

The procedure was led by Dr Elza Hollenbach, Dr Yolandi Smit, and sister Adelle Rossouw, with anaesthesia overseen by Dr Chris Blignaut and sister Celine Lamprecht. Wildlife veterinarian Professor Katja Koeppel also guided the team.

“During surgery, the blockage in the large intestine was removed, and the small intestine was decompressed, effectively relieving the source of the calf’s suffering,” said Girraj.

Post-surgery, the calf recovered well, showing alertness and hunger shortly after anaesthesia. IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain management facilitated her swift recovery, and within six days, she was healthy enough to return to The Rhino Orphanage.

Hollenbach expressed optimism for the calf’s future. Blignaut added that the successful intervention allows the calf to potentially contribute as a breeding female to the conservation of the critically endangered white rhino species.

“Every life saved plays a vital role in the ongoing efforts to protect these majestic creatures,” he said.