A veterinary practice in Purleigh near Maldon, Essex, found itself in the midst of an unusual situation when two emus took an unexpected stroll through its car park, leaving clients seeking refuge in their cars. The comical incident unfolded at EdgeWood Veterinary Group’s surgery, turning an ordinary day into a memorable encounter with these large, flightless birds.
Seemingly self-referring themselves to the veterinary practice, the emus created a stir among clients who found themselves “hiding in their cars” to avoid the unexpected guests. The chaotic series of events prompted the veterinary team to take action.
Fortunately, the emus, named Dini and Blu, were safely relocated to Maldon Promenade Petting Zoo, providing them with a temporary home. Lucia Muralyi, the owner of the daring duo, expressed profound emotions upon being reunited with her unconventional pets, sharing that she “cried and cried” during the heartfelt reunion.
The escapade of Dini and Blu added a touch of whimsy to the Chelmsford Road veterinary practice, leaving both clients and staff with a unique and unexpected story to share. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even in the most unexpected places, nature can surprise us with moments of levity and joy.
The avian visitors made an unexpected entrance at the practice overseen by Nicola Watson on Tuesday, and Ms. Muralyi retrieved them from the petting zoo on Wednesday.
Ms. Watson recounted the peculiar event, stating, “We were going about our usual day when these two birds strolled through our car park. They ventured through the back, meandered through our garden, and eventually reached the area where our clients were, causing a bit of commotion and terrorizing some of our clients who were in their cars.”
Concerned about the chaos ensuing in front of the clients, Ms. Watson and her team had to gather the emus back and redirect them. The unusual sight led some clients to take refuge in their cars, while others hurriedly crossed the car park to seek sanctuary within the building.
To contain the emus, the partner of a nurse at the veterinary surgery stepped in and assisted in penning them before their eventual relocation to the petting zoo.
According to Ms. Muralyi, the emus had escaped due to strong winds that toppled their enclosure at her Purleigh home on Monday. Expressing deep concern, she shared, “I cried and cried, and I had sleepless nights ever since. I was out until dark, constantly searching.” Fearing for the well-being of the fragile and somewhat clumsy emus, Ms. Muralyi’s worries were alleviated when they were safely retrieved.