This is Goldie, a friendly pet pufferfish who always seems to be in a good mood. That joyful spirit is contagious, according to Goldie’s adoring owner, Mark Byatt.
“She has such a wonderful personality!” According to Byatt. “In general, she’s a very happy fish.”
When Goldie is content, it is obvious. But, until recently, it showed a little too much.
Pufferfish, such as Goldie, have teeth that fuse together to form one large tooth. This tooth is constantly growing to compensate for the wear caused by their shellfish diet.
Goldie is a big fan of these hard-shelled snacks. But, for some reason, her chompers have grown faster than they have been ground down in recent months, leaving her teeth longer than they should be.
Byatt was concerned that it would eventually impair her ability to eat, so he brought her to the Sandhole Veterinary Centre for assistance.
Goldie was sedated so that dental work could be done without causing her undue stress.
Her overgrown tooth was then meticulously trimmed.
“We use fish-safe anaesthetic, and [nurse] Debbie held her with a towel, frequently placing her back into the water,” the clinic explained.
The surgery was a success, and Goldie walked away with a much brighter smile.
“She is very happy with her new smile!” Byatt said.
To see Goldie now leaves no doubt about it.
Goldie can now enjoy her food much more comfortably as a result of the dental work.
But her reasons for happiness don’t stop there.
Goldie’s owner adores her, and he makes sure she knows it.
“She is well worth all of the time and money I spend ensuring she lives in the best conditions and has a happy, healthy life,” Byatt said. “Goldie is truly a well-beloved member of the family.”
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