On December 7th in the late hours of the evening, AWLA’s Animal Control team was once again put to the test during a critical emergency call. Seven large reptiles in very poor condition had been found in an Arlington home and were believed to be dead.
Though cold to the touch, limp, and unresponsive, officers Toussaint and Votrubek suspected the reptiles might be in a state of brumation (a type of hibernation) and that there was still a chance to save them. Happily, they were right and after a period of careful and timely treatment, the reptiles began to show signs of life.
The reptiles were then rushed to Pender Exotic Veterinary Centre where they were identified as Solomon Island skinks; the largest skinks in the world and one of the only living reptiles to give birth to live young. Considered near-threatened in the wild, it was critically important to save these rare animals.
“You will never know in this role what any day may bring,” said Chief Toussaint. “Standing over these animals and working on them for so long and then beginning to see those signs of life return is the exact reason I continue to put on this uniform daily for almost 12 years now. I thank Deputy Votroubek and our fellow first responders here in Arlington for their swift actions, dedication, and continued selflessness that is always shown in these critically important emergency situations. I cannot say thank you enough to the amazing and talented team of medical professionals and veterinarians at Pender Exotic Vet for their tremendous care and support of this colony.”
Because of you, these precious lives were saved. Your gift today will ensure that AWLA can continue this life-saving work and every donation will be matched up to $25,000!
P.S. The veterinarians at Pender Exotic Vet tell us the skinks are doing well and shared some more photos. Thank you for contributing to this wonderful outcome!
