Patient of the Week
All proceeds from Steve Irwin Day go into projects such as the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Australian Wildlife Hospital.
The Australian Wildlife Hospital treats thousands of injured animals each year. Sadly, many of them don’t make it back to the wild. The lucky ones make a full recovery and go on to live happy and healthy lives in their natural habitat. These are their stories…
Pheno the Koala
Age: 10+ Sex: Male
Found: After being hit by a car at Coomera on the Gold Coast.
Transported to: The Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital for specialised treatment and rehabilitation.
Veterinary Assessment: Dr Bec assessed Pheno, with x-rays revealing he had suffered a fractured forearm. He is otherwise a very healthy male koala of unusually old age - he is very lucky to have lived for such a long time in the area in which he was found.
Treatment: Dr Bec administered Pheno pain relief and applied a cast to his forearm to help the fracture heal in place. Pheno was kept in the Mammals ICU under close observation, and has recently moved to a leafy outdoor enclosure.
Outcome: Pheno will remain in care for the next few months while his fracture heals, and will undergo regular physiotherapy to regain movement and climbing skills. He will then be released back into the wild.
AZWH Statistic: On average, two koalas are admitted each week after being hit by a car, with 207 treated in 2011. Please slow down!
View previous Patients of the Week at http://www.australiazoo.com.au/conservation/wildlife-warriors/patient-of-the-week/