A Lion Sized Toothache

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Jasmine, seconds after being darted, the anaesthetic already starting to take effect.

As Jasmine slipped into unconsciousness, the keepers moved in. A quick check of general condition and then Martin wedged her mouth open with a length of tube fitted over the canine teeth. Then the 250Kg lioness was manhandled out to the operating table.

Now Peter took control. Despite the unusual surroundings - and patient - most of the equipment would be instantly recognisable to anyone who has been to the dentist. Though the drip supported on a pitchfork and loaded shotgun were perhaps a little different.

Surgery in the field requires inventive improvisation, here a pitchfork became a makeshift drip stand

Initial examination showed there was more to do than first thought, the operation could take up to two hours.

First the upper canine. The familiar sounds of the dentist drill competing with the petrol engine generator and the roaring lions. Peter drilled out the root and stitched the bleeding gum, then turned his attention to a broken lower tooth. With wires inserted the tooth was repaired and the operation completed in one and a half hours.

Peter using his tools of the trade to remove the damaged tooth, note the length of tube fitted over the canine teeth to ensure that Jasmine's mouth remains open throughout.

After taking the opportunity to weigh the sleeping lioness, the team lifted her back into the lion house. Martin administered the drug to revive her whilst all the equipment was cleared away. Then the team withdrew to give her time to come round.

'Everything went fine, no problems at all', said Peter afterwards. His next animal operation is likely to be at Moscow Zoo, with even bigger teeth to deal with - a Walrus.

Jasmine after the operation, still a little woozy, but well on the way to recovery after the successful operation

'She's doing fine but is still a bit woozy', said Shelley standing near the bemused lioness an hour later.

The operation was a complete success. Toothache cured, Jasmine will now be able to enjoy her Christmas dinner.