Abstract

Neonatal mortality is a recognized concern in cetaceans, both under professional care and in the wild.^1-4 Traditionally, medical intervention for intensive neonatal care has been hampered by the aquatic environment, anatomic challenges, and physiologic adaptations of these aquatic species. Advancements in cetacean medicine now allow for an enhanced standard of care and although underreported in the literature, some successful neonatal interventions exist. Here we describe care of a 13-kg, male bottlenose dolphin calf (Tursiops truncatus) born to a primiparous dam after an uncomplicated labor. The calf was vibrant upon delivery, but was immediately rejected and traumatized by the dam. Immediate intervention and restraint allowed for physical examination, blowhole suctioning, oxygen supplementation, blood analysis, wound treatments, antibiotic and fluid administration, weight and measurements, and ultrasonography. Colostrum was initially collected from the dam under manual restraint and then cooperatively for 6 days through a voluntary collection behavior. The calf was fed a combination of the dam's milk and supplemental formula via a gastric tube (18 Fr, 16" red rubber) at hourly intervals for 3 months, at which time the frequency was gradually decreased. The calf's caloric needs were assessed daily based on weight and utilized to calculate feedings. Intensive care was continued daily to monitor systemic health (blood sampling, topical wound care, daily weights, etc.). The calf was originally cared for in a 3,800-gallon above ground pool and later transitioned to a larger 35,000-gallon husbandry pool with visual and auditory access to 2.5 other dolphins. At 3.5 months the calf was introduced to fish and weaning was complete by 5 months of age. Between 6 and 8 months, the calf was slowly introduced to a larger 100,000-gallon pool (14 ft deep, 35 ft diameter) and a dam/calf pair. Presently at 1.5 years of age, the calf continues to thrive with the resident group of dolphins in a 600,000-gallon main exhibit pool (22 ft deep, 100 ft long, 40 ft wide).

* Presenting authors
⁺ Student presenter

Literature Cited

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