Dot’s Horn Makeover
If you’ve noticed that our rhino Dot’s horn looks a bit funny right now, there’s a good reason for it!
Rhinos can naturally shape their horns by filing them against various surfaces, and Dot has always preferred to file hers downwards. Recently, though, her horn had grown a bit too long and curved, causing it to get in her way.
As such, our vet team recommended that we step in and give her horn a trim. Happily, our keepers were able to successfully file down the tip to an appropriate length this week. The process left it with a slightly unusual shape, but don’t worry—it’s just like trimming our hair or nails, and Dot doesn’t feel any discomfort. Over the next few days, our team will continue to smooth it out until it looks normal again.
Dot’s welfare is always our top priority, and her participation in this process is entirely voluntary. Dot can leave at any time during the procedure, but if she does participate, she’s rewarded with lots of tasty treats! Everything we do is with the goal of keeping her comfortable and happy.
Why does Dot file her horn downwards?
Well, the truth is – we don’t know for sure!
One theory is that Dot might be a bit lazy, and it’s simply easier for her to file her horn downwards rather than upwards.
Another theory ties into Dot’s success as a mother. She’s brought six beautiful rhino calves into the world during her time with us. The idea is that when Dot nuzzles her babies, her downward-curving horn wraps around them, providing an extra layer of protection – just like you can see in this photo!