LITTLE ROCK (February 10, 2026)— Recently, during a routine exam, Amboseli, our adult male African lion, was found to have a few teeth that required additional treatment. Lions rely heavily on their teeth for essential daily behaviors—grasping and tearing food, maintaining proper nutrition, and carrying out natural behaviors. Over time, teeth can wear down, crack, or become infected, just like they can in people. Left untreated, dental issues can lead to pain, difficulty eating, infection, and broader health complications.
Catching problems early is especially important because animals are naturally skilled at hiding discomfort. In the wild, showing signs of pain or weakness can make an animal a target, so many species have evolved to mask injuries or illnesses. Even in the safety of the Zoo, this instinct remains, making routine preventive care crucial.
That’s where preventive care comes in—regular check-ups, careful monitoring by animal care staff, and prompt veterinary intervention help keep every animal at the Zoo healthy, happy, and thriving.
Under anesthesia, Amboseli underwent a dental procedure that included a root canal and the extraction of a damaged tooth. The Zoo’s veterinary team, led by Dr. Sara Stoneburg, worked closely with dental specialists Dr. Sandra Shambarger, an endodontist, and Dr. Zach Legan, an oral surgeon, to safely and carefully complete the procedure.
While this type of procedure may sound extraordinary, it reflects the standard of care provided to every animal at the Zoo. Dr. Stoneburg and her team collaborate closely with animal care staff, who observe their animals daily and report even subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or activity. Each animal receives a comprehensive wellness exam at least once a year, and veterinary staff step in quickly whenever something appears out of the ordinary.
Thanks to this collaborative approach, Amboseli recovered smoothly and has returned to his normal routine. His procedure is just one example of the thoughtful, proactive care that goes into supporting the health of every animal at the Zoo—whether they have fur, feathers, scales, or, in this case, some very impressive teeth.
Next time you visit the Zoo, be sure to stop by and see Amboseli—and know that behind the scenes, a dedicated team is working every day to care for every detail of his health, right down to his teeth.
