IT MIGHT have been a mere check up in the eyes of the doctor but five meerkats did not seem impressed when they received their vaccinations last week. The meerkats, some of the most popular animals at the Werribee Open Range Zoo, were given their annual health check-ups, vaccinations and a claw trim. Three one-year-old critters, Keon, Barwa and Ukuzu, their father Gidi and their auntie Courtney, were left a little bit angry after they were given their needles. A zoo spokesperson said before the check-up that the vets would be taking no chances against the small African animals. “Despite their cute size and tiny appearance, meerkats can be feisty and elusive little creatures,” the spokesperson said. “Vets and keepers will wear protective gloves to protect them from their sharp teeth and claws.” The quintet of critters seemed to forgive the keepers however after they were given a few special treats. 92571 Picture: MATHEW LYNN
