Pinioning in an eight month old swan

Abstract

Two, unsexed, eight month old mute swans (Cygnus olor) presented to Cornell University Hospital for Animals Exotics Service. The owner reported that the swans had escaped their property multiple times. Due to the fact that the swans were difficult to handle, as well as a previously unnerving experience trimming a blood feather, they were interested in a permanent de-flight procedure. A physical exam and basic bloodwork was performed and the swans were both found to be healthy and good surgical candidates. The swans were taken to surgery and pinioning was performed on the opposite wing of each bird for identification purposes. The birds were discharged the following day with a wing bandage, analgesics and antibiotics. A few days following discharge, the owners reported that the birds were doing well other than loose feces and slight innapetence. It was recommended to decrease the dose of NSAIDS and both birds fully recovered.