Journey for a Jaguar

In November 2023, a select group of Oakland Zoo’s veterinary team, joined by two specialty vet dentists from Aggie Animal Dental Center, traveled to Guatemala to perform a critical procedure on a 10-year-old female jaguar living at ARCAS.
ARCAS, our conservation partner, rescues and rehabilitates wildlife caught in the illegal wildlife trade. This jaguar sadly came to ARCAS when she was just a few weeks old and, because she could not be released back into the wild, has been taken care of ever since by the ARCAS staff. We led a procedure to remove a bad tooth and give this beautiful creature a much-needed thorough exam.
We are happy to share that the procedure went very well - the bad tooth was removed, no major other health problems were discovered, and she has recovered smoothly and is already showing signs of being much more comfortable!

[@zacharybriddell98]

Wow that was Amazing!

[@davidbaker4110]

Awesome Job All. ❤

[@zacharybriddell98]

I’m wondering will the Jaguar live in the zoo or be released back into the Wild!

[@OaklandZooCA]

This jaguar is, unfortunately, non-releasable based on its history as a victim of the illegal wildlife trade.

[@pistachokink]

Guatemala doesn’t have veterinarians? Or is a US dental procedure cheaper than Guatemalan procedures?. Don’t worry I’ll wait.

[@OaklandZooCA]

Veterinary dental specialists are far and few between. Even in the United States, the field is very small. So, we offered to provide assistance on a procedure that requires particular knowledge while further cementing our bond with one of our conservation partners.