Published April 12, 2018
An otter that lived with its mate at a Virginia estate and park has died unexpectedly during a dental exam.
The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports Ella was sent from the Maymont estate to an animal hospital after she appeared to have a toothache. Dr. Kelly Gottschalk, the veterinarian who oversaw the procedure, says Ella's heart stopped while she was under anesthesia. Gottschalk says Ella appeared to have suffered a brain injury during the crisis.
Ella died Sunday. She was thought to be about 3 years old. Ella and her mate Louis arrived at Maymont last May after they were found raiding crawfish farms in Louisiana. A statement by Maymont says it will evaluate procedures for care before seeking a new companion for Louis.
Maymont operates a sanctuary for hundreds of animals.
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Information from: Richmond Times-Dispatch, http://www.richmond.com
https://www.foxnews.com/us/otter-at-animal-sanctuary-dies-after-dental-surgery