Aug
24

How do you help a Komodo Dragon with arthritis?

When Reptile Discovery Center keepers noticed Murphy seemed slugglish, they worked to put the pep back in his step.

How do you help a Komodo dragon with arthritis? Recently, Reptile Discovery Center keepers noticed Murphy wasn’t exploring his surroundings as often as he used to. Zoo veterinarians examined the 26-year-old lizard, and radiographs revealed arthritis in both of his knees and one of his elbows. Our animal care team turned to an innovative treatment—one that is typically used in dogs—to block the inflammation and ease Murphy’s discomfort, lessening the need for pain-relieving medications. With a little help from science and a lot of TLC from his caretakers, the Zoo’s largest lizard is regaining the pep in his step!

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Posted: 24 August 2022
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