Courtesy Carson City veterinarians Dr. Michael Dearmin, a surgeon with Sierra Veterinary Specialists, and Dr. Cynthia Schneider of Sierra Veterinary Hospital helped perform dental work on two cheetahs from Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary in Reno.
Two Carson City veterinarians provided dental care for some unusual clients recently: Two cheetahs from Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary in Reno.
Dr. Michael Dearmin, a surgeon with Sierra Veterinary Specialists, and Dr. Cynthia Schneider of Sierra Veterinary Hospital performed the procedures on the cheetahs, Moyo and Zulu. Veterinary technicians Stacy Lopez and Andrea Jincks assisted.
A local dentist, Dr. Bill Van Patten, also volunteered his time and expertise.
Moyo and Zulu have had ongoing issues with a problem called focal palatine erosion. It leads to painful ulcers and infection of the roof of the mouth, leading to difficulty eating and other health problems.
The team anesthetized the cats with the help of Dr. Peregrine Wolff, a Nevada Department of Wildlife veterinarian.
The palate erosions were treated and the cats also had their teeth cleaned. A full physical examination and blood sample collection were performed to evaluate the cats' health.
Dr. Karen Hassan, an equine veterinarian and veterinary acupuncturist, treated both cats with acupuncture for the oral lesions as well as some low-grade arthritis pain.
The cats have both recovered well and should soon be back up to racing speed.