Canada Goose Fishing Hook Removal and Tracheal Repair for Long Island Patient at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic

Case Study #32: Canada Goose Hook Removal (Wildlife)

Patient: Canada Goose (Adult) Location: Long Island, NY

Long Island is home to beautiful waterways and abundant wildlife, but human activity often poses a threat to local birds. Fishing hooks and lines are among the most common and deadly hazards for waterfowl.

Recently, an adult Canada Goose was brought to Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic by a local wildlife rescue organization. The goose had been found with a fishing hook embedded deep in his neck. This case highlights our commitment to working with wildlife rehabilitators and our ability to perform delicate soft-tissue surgery on avian airways.

The Patient: A Hook in the Neck The patient presented to our clinic stable but quiet. The fishing hook was not just caught in the skin; it had penetrated deep into the soft tissues of the neck. Neck injuries in birds are especially concerning because several critical structures are located in this area, including the windpipe (trachea), esophagus, and major blood vessels. Attempting to remove a hook without proper visualization can result in severe bleeding or airway compromise, which is why these injuries require careful veterinary evaluation.

The Treatment: Surgical Extraction The patient was immediately sedated to reduce stress and pain.

• Airway Control: To protect the patient's airway during the procedure, we placed a breathing tube to ensure he could breathe safely and to prevent blood or fluids from entering his lungs.

• Exploration: We carefully cleaned the wound site with antiseptic solution. Upon surgical exploration, we discovered the hook had penetrated through the wall of the trachea.

The Removal and Repair Removing a barbed hook is tricky; you cannot simply pull it out, or the barb will tear more tissue.

• Controlled Traction: We manipulated the hook to expose the barb.

• Removal: The hook was safely extracted without damaging the jugular vein.

• Closure: The puncture wounds in the trachea and the external skin were sutured closed. Airway integrity is vital for a goose, as they rely on a strong respiratory system for flight.

Recovery: Ready for Release The patient recovered well from the sedation. He received an injection of long-acting pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection from the dirty river water likely present on the hook.

He was returned to the care of the wildlife rescue organization, where he made a full recovery and was eventually released back into the wild.

Why We Treat Wildlife At Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic, we believe in supporting our ecosystem. We work closely with licensed rehabilitators in NYC, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties to provide veterinary care for injured native species. Whether it is a pet parrot or a wild goose, every bird deserves expert medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I see a bird with a fishing hook? Do not try to catch it unless you are trained. Contact a local wildlife rescue or rehabilitation center immediately.

Do you treat wild birds for free? We work directly with registered 501(c)(3) wildlife organizations. If you find injured wildlife, please contact a rehabber first; they will coordinate with us for medical treatment.

Contact Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic: Website: https://www.birdexoticsvet.com/ Phone: (516) 482-1101