On Wednesday, 18 September, two Cango Wildlife Ranch staff members commenced the Great Trek to the Cape Animal Eye Hospital with a very valuable cargo.
The day had finally arrived. After months of preparation, fundraising, planning and prayers Venus was on her way for the eye surgery.
Less than 2 months ago, Venus, our beautiful female cheetah (6 years of age) was diagnosed with bilateral cataracts. Her eyes gradually worsened over the past while as we continued to monitor her closely. Because eye specialists for large cats are not common in the area, we sent photographs of her eyes off for medical examination. It was quickly determined that she had cataracts. Accordingly, we ran multiple tests ranging from diabetes to kidney and liver tests (a fairly common problem with cheetahs) in order to eliminate possible causes of her blindness. All test results came back negative.
On the evening of 17 August, Venus was sedated and examined by our local vet, Dr Glen Carlisle. She was then crated and loaded onto one of our vehicles where she spent a few hours recuperating from the sedation. At 3h30am Craig Gouws (our Big-Cat Curator), Garrett Eriksen (our Operations Liaison) and Doctor Carlisle embarked on the trip to Cape Town with Venus… who was comfortably cushioned in her custom-built transit crate.
Venus and our staff arrived at the Cape Animal Eye Hospital just after 8am and were greeted with a warm welcome. Doctor Anthony Goodhead, an expert in this field, thoroughly examined Venus as we all waited in baited breath for his go-ahead. Although it was determined that Venus had cataracts, an ultrasound had to be done in order to define the extent of the ocular degeneration. A sigh of relief filled the room as Doctor Goodhead revealed that Venus was a perfect candidate for the surgery.
Venus was quickly prepped for the surgery as our staff ‘scrubbed up’ to observe and document the procedure. Doctor Goodhead removed the cataracts and large amounts of scar tissue from her corneas. Due to her particular case, Goodhead determined that new lenses would not resolve her condition, however, he was confident that by removing all the obstructions it would restore her sight. Venus is now far-sighted but for the first time in over a year… she can see.
Venus was transported back to the Cango Wildlife Ranch on the same day. Her transit crate was placed in her enclosure and was slowly opened and, after a few hisses, Venus lifted her head. She leaned forward… took in her surroundings and it was like she was seeing everything for the first time.
With her strong and spirited personality it did not take her long before she started exploring her enclosure… it was all new to her despite the fact that has been her home for some years.
The next few weeks are critical in Venus’ recovery and so far she is doing exceptionally well. Our Wild Animal Volunteer program has been adjusted to cater to all of Venus’ needs and to monitor her progress through every step of her recovery.
At the Cango Wildlife Ranch we feel passionate about our animals, our facility and the conservation ethics that we stand for. One of the main goals of Venus’ surgery was to improve her quality of life and remove the fear and darkness she experienced on a daily basis.
Venus is a prime example of the lengths that we will go to, to ensure the well-being of all of our 89 species. Our conservation branch, The Cheetah Preservation Foundation, specialises in conservation initiatives that promote education of endangered species and the preservation of said species and their natural habitats.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to our Cheetah Preservation Foundation and Operation Venus. We look forward to being a part of Venus’ recovery and her second lease on life!
Doctor Andrew Goodhead has since viewed photo’s of her eyes, 3 days after surgery and is thrilled with the results!
