Yasmin the mule was suffering from a rare condition that needed immediate surgery by SPANA’s skilled vets in Chemaia, Morocco.
Yasmin the mule was just a few months old when she arrived at SPANA’s centre in Chemaia, Morocco. Her concerned owner, 65-year-old Satour, brought her along for treatment when he discovered that her navel was swollen and causing her severe discomfort.
SPANA vets carefully examined Yasmin’s navel and found swelling and discharge. When the vets gently touched the inflamed area, it was warm and clearly caused Yasmin pain. The vets diagnosed the young mule as suffering from a navel infection. This is a dangerous condition that can occur when bacteria enters the umbilical cord of a newborn animal. If the condition is not treated quickly, it can lead to life-threatening infection and complications, either as a newborn or slightly later in life. It was clear that Yasmin would need immediate surgery to remove the infected tissue.
Yasmin was given a general anesthetic and the vets conducted an ultrasound to assess the severity of her infection. The vets then started the delicate process of removing the infected tissue from the surrounding healthy tissue. During the procedure, they discovered that the problem had begun to affect her colon. If this rare complication had been left untreated, bacteria could have spread and led to peritonitis – an infection of the inner lining of the abdomen – which can be fatal.
The vets carefully operated to tackle the problem. When the surgery was completed successfully, Yasmin was put on a course of antibiotics and painkillers to aid her recovery. Her stitches were removed after two weeks and she stayed at the centre for three weeks until she had fully recovered and could return home.
Satour had a special message for SPANA supporters. He said: ‘I am happy to see my mule in good shape. May God bless you and repay you for your commendable generosity.’
Yasmin the mule is just one example of a working animal that required urgent surgery at one of our centres. From navel infections to removing colic-causing obstructions, our vets must act fast to perform lifesaving surgery on working animals in need. With your kindness, we are able to help thousands of animals a year in need of surgery. Thank you for your ongoing support.
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