Three young giraffes at Werribee Open Range Zoo are completing some important training in a fun way.
Jesse, Wayo and David are learning how to touch their noses to a target, in an effort to ensure they will be comfortable during routine medical checks and procedures that require them to be awake.
To familiarise them with participating in proactive healthcare, they are encouraged to voluntarily enter a training area where one keeper rewards them with a carrot for touching their nose to a stick.
A second keeper can then start getting them accustomed to important health care behaviours, such as touching their necks for a voluntary blood draw, holding still for dental x-rays, or even hoof care.
Zoo savannah keeper Alison Edwards explained why some procedures must happen while the giraffes are awake.
“You can imagine that anaesthetising a huge giraffe would be quite a feat, so this training is to get them comfortable with keepers being close so we can do a stress-free blood draw while they’re awake.”
Each under three years of age, they have been described as playful yet fast learners.
“David is obsessed with food so he’s motivated by the treats, Wayo is shy so he’s a little more hesitant, and Jesse is like the excitable kid in class so he’s always keen to be part of the action.” Ms Edwards said.
The youngsters, who arrived at the zoo last October, also learn from the older giraffes and give them a run for their money out on the savannah.
