When zookeepers saw Ned dragging a leg, they turned to a 3D printer.
The bearded dragon at Healesville Sanctuary in Australia is walking again after being fitted with a custom leg splint.
Staff said X-rays and an examination showed Ned had injured toes and nerve damage.
His leg was scanned to capture every bump and curve before a 3D-printed replica leg and splint were made.
Healesville Sanctuary said the work was possible thanks to engineer Girius Antanaitis from GA Medical, who creates custom surgical and veterinary equipment.
The new splint helps Ned move more easily, climb logs, bask in the warmth up high and catch live prey such as insects.
Healesville Sanctuary vet nurse Chris Stitt said staff trialled four different splints over a couple of months.
“Ned is a cool lizard. He’s very chill. He’s very good at all his appointments. He’s quite happy to sit on the X-ray plate. He’s one of the easiest patients to work with,” Chris said.
“I think it’s amazing that we can make this animal’s life better, so he can put his best foot forward while trialling new innovations and ideas.”
Ned will continue to wear the splint for ongoing support, and his team of carers will also monitor his ongoing welfare and condition.
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