From the moment cameras caught images of this wild giraffe, they could tell something was wrong. Somehow a tire had wrapped itself around the poor creature’s neck.
Not only was the tire adding extra weight to her long neck. It was also causing lacerations. While the Mobile Veterinary Unit wasn’t sure how this had happened, they knew they needed to help the giraffe.
After successfully sedating the creature, the team worked expertly and efficiently to remove the unwanted necklace. But these dedicated wildlife stewards were not finished yet.
When animals wake up from sedation, it can be dangerous to start moving immediately. Especially with long-legged creatures like giraffes, moving too quickly after sedation can cause them to tumble and hurt themselves.
As the giraffe awoke, the team restrained the animal a little longer, risking their safety to protect the giant animal. Finally, though, the giraffe was ready to be released.
After applying a spray to the back of the giraffe’s neck where the lacerations were the worst, the team stepped back, and the giraffe took off from the spot, finally free of the tire.
While the tire got onto the giraffe’s neck because of humans, it was also humans who set it right. Watching this team work together is a reminder of the positive part humans can play in the world around us.
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