Binder Park Zoo’s veterinarian, Dr. Kim Thompson, recently reached out to the Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center’s Soft Tissue Surgery service to provide advanced care for Sassy, the zoo’s seven-year-old African painted dog. As always, the team, led by Dr. Maureen Spinner, was eager to help.
Sassy’s Story
Despite breeding efforts over the past couple of years, Sassy was not getting pregnant. After further evaluation, the zoo’s veterinary team diagnosed her with cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH), a non-reversible condition that is common in older African painted dogs and results in infertility.
In addition to infertility, CEH can increase the risk of developing pyometra, a potentially life-threatening uterine infection. Due to this elevated risk, the care team decided to spay Sassy to eliminate the risk of developing a pyometra in the future.
To support a faster recovery time, the zoo chose a minimally invasive surgical option—one in which Michigan State University was able to lend its expertise. Spinner and her team traveled to the zoo with their equipment and performed a laparoscopic ovariohysterectomy (also known as a spay) surgery.
With this surgical technique, Sassy required only a few minor incisions for the equipment ports rather than a large abdominal incision. As a result, Sassy was able to recover quickly from surgery and was reunited with her mate, Pollock, later the same day. Sassy was an excellent patient and healed without any complications.
Wild by Design
Binder Park Zoo features spacious, natural habitats that blend into the surrounding landscape, designed with consideration for both animal welfare and the visitor experience. The zoo’s mission is to “Connect. Inspire. Conserve. Connect people with nature. Inspire them to conserve."
Sustaining the Species
Binder Park Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Battle Creek, Michigan. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), Binder Park Zoo is home to a fascinating collection of exotic and native species, including more than 40 Species Survival Plan (SSP) animals, one of which is the African painted dog.
Binder Park Zoo works closely with the African painted dog Species Survival Program, which is led by AZA professionals across the country. SSP programs work together to help protect and sustain diverse animal populations inside AZA facilities. SSP experts track genetics and family histories to make thoughtful recommendations about breeding and animal care, ensuring healthy populations for the future. As per SSP recommendations, Sassy and Pollock will be transferred to another AZA institution this year. Binder Park Zoo has been recommended to receive a new pack of African painted dogs from within the AZA community, with hopes of future puppies.
