Dr. DeBlanc will always step in to support the underdog, the smaller reserves, the ones that struggle on a daily basis but never quit.

When Veterinary Conservation Coalition got the call that a private reserve in the Eastern Cape, who does a remarkable job managing the small crash of rhino they have, needed help funding a dehorning of one of their cows, we jumped to help.

Trimming of cows is not always easy to put on a regular schedule because other factors come into play.  If they are heavily pregnant, the risk is too high.  If the cow has given birth and has a young calf by her side, dehornings are not performed due to stress and potential injury for the calf during the darting and anesthesia process.

Dr. William Fowlds is an expert in his field and uses these dehornings as opportunities to teach his vet students and interns how to handle rhino safely and efficiently.  He graciously donates his time to dehorning projects, so we make sure his costs are covered for medication, supplies, and for the microchips inserted into the removed horn so it cannot be sold illegally.

• Animals are darted with a sedative, either from a helicopter or on foot, depending on the rhino and the size of the reserve.
• Once the sedative takes effect and the rhino lies down, a blindfold and earplugs are placed on the rhino to reduce stress to stimuli.
• Blood can be taken, dewormer given, or any other necessary veterinary procedure required. Measurements are taken for the reserve’s research and records. Breathing and heart rate are closely monitored.
• The dehorning process, with either a Sawzall, chainsaw, or handsaw, removes the bulk of the horn.
• The reversal drug is given and within minutes, the rhino is alert and moving.