Not a dry eye on the Savannah thanks to rhino healthcare success
Seasonal allergies affect millions of Victorians every year – and that includes Werribee Open Range Zoo Southern white rhinoceros, Letaba.
Now, thanks to months of healthcare training, the 31-year-old rhino has learnt to voluntarily receive eye drops and antihistamine cream to relieve her symptoms during peak allergen periods.
Werribee Open Range Zoo savannah keeper Linda Gardiner said the stress-free healthcare approach not only improves Letaba’s eye health, but builds trusting bonds between the two-tonne beauty and her keepers.
“During the training, we encourage Letaba into the training yard with her favourite foods so that we can get a good look at her eye before we apply any treatment,” Ms Gardiner said. “While we administer the drops and cream, Letaba has complete choice and control about when to leave, which is the philosophy behind all our healthcare training at the zoo.
Southern white rhinos are under serious threat in the wild from illegal poaching due to demand for rhino horn and habitat destruction. It’s estimated that there are less than 20,000 Southern white rhinos remaining in the wild.
“The treatment has prevented her from getting sore eyes and she appears much more comfortable, which is fantastic to see.”
During summer, Letaba was receiving eye care daily; however, her eye health has improved to the point where it’s no longer necessary. Ms Gardiner said zookeepers and vets will continue to monitor Letaba’s eyes as the weather changes in Melbourne.
“We’re not sure if her eye dryness is caused by dust, pollen or grasses. So, we will continue to work with Letaba to ensure she remains in peak health year-round,” Ms Gardiner said.
The eye-drop training is just one of many methods keepers at Werribee Open Range Zoo use to provide the most positive, least intrusive care for its animals.
The veterinary team and keepers also work with Letaba to conduct blood draws, skin checks and weight monitoring.
Southern white rhinos are under serious threat in the wild from illegal poaching due to demand for rhino horn and habitat destruction. It’s estimated that there are less than 20,000 Southern white rhinos remaining in the wild.
Zoos Victoria and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au. Zoos Victoria Members no longer need to book tickets.