What happens when feisty creatures get a bit too curious? N-otter wise move for this little one
Rudolf the otter is treated at Grimsby Vets for Pets(Image: Grimsby Vets for Pets)
Curiosity thankfully didn’t kill the kit when this nosey youngster ventured into a pond. The young otter – nicknamed Rudolf by vets – proved that red noses aren’t just for reindeers, after an ill-advised fishing trip left him needing help from Grimsby vets.
The curious youngster, who is thought to be less than a year old, was found in a pond with an injury to his face. It’s believed Rudolf boldly ventured into the water and strayed a little too close to the pond filter.
After being rescued, he was taken into the care of Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue and taken to Grimsby Vets for Pets for a full examination. And while Rudolf may look like a cuddly storybook character, the team quickly discovered that their unusual patient had a personality as fiery as his nose was red.
As a wild animal, he could not be safely handled while awake, so the veterinary team examined him under sedation. Thankfully, closer inspection brought good news – Rudolf’s nose did not need treatment and should heal naturally, leaving him free to concentrate on the next stage of his recovery.
Dr Agata Tiszler, Practice Owner and Veterinary Surgeon at Grimsby Vets for Pets, said: “Rudolf was small, determined and very clear about the fact that he did not want to be examined. We described him as ‘spicy’, which is probably the kindest way to put it!
It was the first time Grimsby Vets for Pets had seen an otter at the practice(Image: Grimsby Vets for Pets)
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“Although everyone was excited to see an otter at the practice for the first time, our priority was keeping him calm and making sure we could examine him safely. It was a huge relief to find that his nose should heal without treatment. Encounters like this remind us just how much remarkable wildlife lives alongside our local community.”
Rudolf was the practice’s first otter patient, although the team has previously opened its doors to foxes and birds of prey. His visit followed a partnership formed between the practice and Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue in April.
The two have joined up after linking through registered veterinary nurse Kellie Forester, who volunteers with the rescue and helps bring wildlife in for veterinary care. Rudolf is now heading to the UK’s otter rehabilitation centre in Devon, where he will receive specialist support before the next chapter of his journey.
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