Before the 5th procedure commences Dr William Fowlds, a well known SA wildlife vet, double checks that the anasthetic has taken effect and that Hope is in a stable state for the operation.
Hope managed to remove her previous protective shield a week or so prior to the operation. The wildlife vets working on her take some time to inspect the wound, checking for any potentially dangerous infection.
Cleaning and disinfecting the wound thoroughly is important before attaching the shield. The poachers used a chainsaw to remove the horn, hacking open her face and cutting straight through the bone in order to remove the base plate. The horn will never grow back.
After such a traumatic experiance it is a miracle that Hope has made it this far, she is a strong Rhino with a fighting spirit. The fantastic team of people and many helping hands, will help her along the long road to recovery.
Assisting in the procedure was an emotionally draining, high concentration, stressful experiance for all those involved. The expressions on these team members faces say it all.
The operation was complex as there was minimal face left to attach the shield to. Therefore, Hope had to be moved half way through the operation in order to keep her circulation flowing.
Concerned faces for Hope, many helping hands and man-power were required to reposition such a large animal.
Hope is back in position for the second half of the operation. Operations such as this are unusual and the wildlife vets involved are always learning in order to help future poaching survivors.
The shield is attached to what remains of Hope's face. The question is how long will she keep this one on, made of thick plastic it is much more flexible than the last one. However, she likes removing them at least the wound is protected for the time being.
The team move away to give Hope space as William Fowlds administers the antidote. Tears of relief are shed as Hope comes around, because these procedures are high risk. Hope is an inspiration to all of us, not to give up in this war against poaching.