Vets had to tread very carefully when treating the injured paw of a rare 18-year-old tiger.
Alyona, an endangered Amur tiger at Blackpool Zoo, was sedated so specialists could examine and treat her injured paw.
And while the big cat was safely asleep, the team took the opportunity to give her a full health MOT, including blood tests and even a manicure and pedicure.
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Vets Andrew and Shannon, from independent small animal and exotics practice Moore Vets in Preston, helped carry out the examination, as reported by What’s The Jam.
A spokesperson for Moore Vets said: “Andrew and Shannon enjoyed treating one of our geriatric patients at Blackpool Zoo, Alyona, the Amur tiger.
“She had a full health check, blood sampling, manicure and pedicure.
“The majestic Amur tiger is the largest cat species alive today.
“They are sadly endangered, with fewer than 400 animals left in the wild.
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“They can live up to around 15 years in the wild, and longer in captivity.
“The Amur tiger can be found in the Russian Far East, with a small number ranging across the border into China and possibly North Korea.
“Poaching and habitat loss have decimated the population of this beautiful species.
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“At 18 years old, Alyona has already surpassed the average lifespan of an Amur tiger in the wild.”
Alyona celebrated her 18th birthday earlier this year, marking a significant milestone for the endangered species.
Zoo staff say her long life reflects years of expert care, specialist diets and carefully managed enrichment designed to support her health and natural behaviours.
Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, remain endangered in the wild, with poaching and habitat loss among the biggest threats to their survival.
Blackpool Zoo takes part in conservation and breeding programmes aimed at safeguarding the future of the species in accredited zoos around the world.
Keepers say Alyona remains active and healthy and continues to act as an ambassador for her endangered species.
