One of the most commonly asked questions we get is "What is the most unusual patient Somers Animal Hospital ever treated?" As an exotic pet and wildlife practice we have cared for monkeys, a bobcat, coyotes, fox and some beautiful birds of prey. On Tuesday, September 6th, 2005 we were able to add Ursidae to our list. More specifically, Euarctos ursus americanus, better known as the American Black Bear.  The male yearling was hit by a car on the Taconic State Parkway near Fahnestock State Park. Officers from Beekman Animal Control and the Dept. of  Environmental Conservation (DEC) contacted Dykman's Wildlife Nuisance Control. As we have previously worked with them they were able to transport the bear to our hospital early that morning.

     Dr. Schimelman and our licensed nursing staff sedated him so we could safely evaluate his injuries and treat him accordingly. He weighed 125 pounds and although injured and sedated commanded total respect and caution. Treatment for shock was initiated and x-rays were taken of his chest, abdomen and right rear leg. The x-rays revealed mild trauma to his chest and abdomen and a complete fracture of his right femur (thigh bone). The results of his blood tests also showed evidence of trauma involving his liver, kidneys and red blood cells (anemia). The doctors assessed these abnormalities as mild and would resolve without specific treatment. We contacted Dr. Robert Steckel, a veterinary surgical specialist, who was able to perform the surgery the following day. The DEC in New Paltz was able to supply us with a bear transport cage so we could safely secure him before and after surgery.

     The surgery was performed on September 7th. Dr. Steckel, with Dr. Schimelman assisting, used a bone plate to repair the fracture. This would insure a more secure repair and would not affect the growth plates, which if disurbed, could result in malformation of his leg. Although he was already 125 pounds he could reach a weight of 300 pounds. The surgery went well and he recovered without problems.

     Jenifer Bowman, one of our veterinary assistants and a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, and the helpful people at the DEC arranged for the bear to be transported to an upstate wildlife rehabilitator able to care for bears. She has one of the few facilities in New York that is appropriate to care for bear and wild cats. Two years ago we were able to transfer a bobcat there after she was also hit by a car. He was successfiully transferred on September 8th, the day after surgery.

     After 2 weeks in the upstate facility he regained full function of the leg and he was transferred back to the area he was originally found in Carmel,where there was plenty of time for him to prepare for hibernation. The DEC placed a special collar on him which emails them automatically every month so they can follow his movements.

     It was a most gratifying  experience to be involved in the care of this magnificent animal and to allow his successful return to the wild.