A goofy bear – the first to undergo a brain op in the UK – recovering after pioneering surgery.
Boki went under the knife for five-and-a-half hours rather than the expected two-and-a-half hours.
He had the operation after an MRI scan revealed a build-up of fluid on the brain.
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The two-year-old brown bear at Wildwood Trust near Canterbury, Kent had been suffering from seizures and related health issues
He was said to be doing well after becoming the first animal in the UK to have the procedure as reported by What’s The Jam.
Animal Behaviour Management Officer Becky Copland said staff were moved by Boki’s fight.
“He’s tired, a little uncomfortable but he had some grapes and honey water and medication so it’s good,” she said.
“It’s emotional – Boki has been through so much and we’ve seen that.
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“And it was nice to see him eating the morning after.”
International Zoo Veterinary Group’s Elliot Simpson added: “Boki has done incredibly well.
“He’s young and emotional so we expected him to be quiet after such a big procedure
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“But he likes people and company and when we were checking on him the day after it seemed to spur him on so he’s forgiven us for the operation which is good.
“The following days will be crucial in the long process to healing and recovery.”
Specialist wildlife veterinary surgeon Dr Romain Pizzi carried out the surgery, which aimed to drain fluid from the bear’s brain, at Wildwood Trust.
After the surgery, Dr Pizzi said: “”He’s a very trusting, friendly bear.
“There’s something goofy about him.
“He is a real character and I can see why everyone bonded with him.
“But it’s a waiting game now to see what happens over the coming weeks and months.
“Has it all done what we want it to – we have to wait and see.
“We all want him to do really well so we’re all keeping our fingers crossed.”
The op took place last Wednesday (9 Oct).
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