A three-day-old Baby rhino, Hope, passed away yesterday, 3 June, after being admitted to The Rhino Orphanage. He arrived three days ago with gut issues and was severely hyperglycemic.
His first night was tough on him and the care team, as he collapsed and was put on a drip. The vet administered an emergency plasma transfusion the following morning and he started drinking again. The team also administered IV fluids, liver support, and helped in any way they could. Although there was a slight improvement, they suspected the calf had small ulcers in his gut.
He spent his second night at the orphanage on an IV drip as his condition remained unchanged and suffered minor spasmodic colic. Improvements included his blood glucose stabilising more and he began making small squeaks before milk time.
His reserve named him Hope, which everyone agreed was well suited to his situation.
Sadly, The Rhino Orphanage announced yesterday, 3 July that baby Hope passed away. His body was unable to cope with all the complications. He spent his last morning outside in the sunshine. He was also able to spend time with another little rhino orphan Mpho, which the team believes was a great comfort for him.
He was much loved by everyone on the team at The Rhino Orphanage.
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