A rescued lioness from war-torn Ukraine underwent a critical dental procedure at a Kent sanctuary. Three-year-old Lira suffered a severely infected lower right canine tooth caused by a deep-seated abscess.

Lira, who arrived at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden on March 14 following a campaign spearheaded by conservationist and managing director Cam Whitnall to raise £500,000 for her and four other rescued lions, was safely sedated in her habitat.

The 140kg-animal was immobilised using a dart gun loaded with a quick-acting anaesthetic combination.

The complex surgery, which took place on October 10, was performed by world-renowned dentist Peter Kertesz from Zoodent International.

Peter estimated the infection was likely caused by a trauma sustained when Lira was between 1.5 and 2 years

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