Kate Foran, Tennant & District Times
It is such a privilege working in the vet industry!
You get the chance to get up close with so many gorgeous creatures; mostly companion pets, but occasionally with some of the spectacular wildlife that lives in our Barkly region as well.
This week was extra special, we received a visit from a stunning reptile! A local ranger brought in a juvenile Spencer’s Goanna to us.
Having been discovered far away from his home country, the ranger was safely returning this very handsome fella to the black soil plains of the Barkly Tableland, where he belongs.
Nurse Shoni first held him very carefully with strong gloves, as we weren’t sure how friendly he was, or if he was used to humans … then Vet Donna came out and confidently picked him up for a general health examination in her bare hands!
Donna confirmed him to be a male, and in good condition.
His skin was surprisingly soft and supple, with the most beautiful array of dotted patterns.
The markings on his body were like a spectacular artwork, with fine dots of browns and creams making up beautiful designs all over his body and down his tail. It was honestly thrilling to be so close to this handsome young fella!
All the best on your return home, Mr Spencer, we hope you live a long and happy life back out in the bush.
This article appeared in Tennant & District Times, 22 July 2022.
