Duck in Distress

The Stapeley team are constantly monitoring our patients for any problems, regardless of the stage of rehabilitation.  Whilst working outside I was notified that one of our Mallard ducks was limping.

It was not long before I could pick out the lame individual. Armed with a net and an assistant, ‘Operation Catch the Duck’ was up and running; it began by the two of us slowly herding them into a corner whilst, minimising stress but trying to remain focused on the specific duck.   At the precise moment I swiftly brought the net down over the duck and caught it, it sounds much easier than it actually was but job done! 

Inside the hospital the leg was properly examined, it was easy to see that the right one was swollen at the joint.  The vet then put on the floor so that she could see how lame it was.  It was decided to anaesthetise the duck so x-rays could be taken.  It showed changes to the tibiotarsus leg bone – the problem was, as thought, at the joint. 

The duck was taken into isolation and put on a course of pain killing medication.  With some rest and pampering hopefully it will be back outside soon….will keep you posted.

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