Summary of Antonio’s Custom Shoes – Brevard Zoo Blog:
Recently, Baird’s tapir Antonio at Brevard Zoo had a cracked hoof and was experiencing discomfort. The animal care team prescribed pain medication and fitted Antonio with custom “shoes” to alleviate the pain. It is believed that the crack was caused by running over rocks or the hard surface of the pool in Antonio’s habitat. The shoes were attached to both of his front feet using adhesive. Radiographs showed that the bone was close to the surface of the crack and had some remodeling. Antonio will wear the shoes until they fall off or need to be removed, and the team will monitor the crack to ensure proper healing. Baird’s tapirs are endangered, and Brevard Zoo supports tapir conservation efforts.
1. Antonio’s Custom Shoes: The Unique Treatment for Ailing Tapir
2. The Expert Care of Zookeepers and Veterinarians
3. The Importance of Tapir Conservation
Antonio, the six-year-old Baird’s tapir at Brevard Zoo, has recently received a unique and fascinating treatment for his ailing hoof. The watchful eye and hard work of the zoo’s animal care staff have led to installing custom “shoes” onto Antonio, ensuring his well-being and recovery.
It all started when the keepers at the Rainforest Revealed exhibit noticed a large crack on one of Antonio’s hooves. They also observed him showing discomfort, prompting them to notify the veterinary team immediately. Antonio was prescribed pain medication, and a procedure was scheduled to fit him with custom “shoes,” which had previously been done in May of 2021.
Upon closer examination, the animal care team discovered that the crack was deep and near the bone, causing pain for Antonio while walking. Although the exact cause of the crack remains uncertain, the team suspects it resulted from Antonio running over rocks or the hard surfaces of his pool. Director of Animal Programs Lauren Hinson stated that Antonio seems to have a more sensitive sole material that wears down quickly, requiring extra monitoring for his well-being.
To ensure Antonio’s recovery, radiographs were taken while under anesthesia to determine if the crack affected the bone. It was found that the bone was very close to the surface of the crack, with some remodeling taking place. Before placing the custom “shoes,” the cracked hoof was packed with a fibrous material, sanded, and heated to dry. The shoes were then attached to Antonio’s front hooves to maintain balance and prevent excess wear.
The shoeing process began with Lauren cleaning and roughening the hoof surface to provide a suitable area for shoe placement. She applied a specialized fibrous material for protection and attached three shoes on each of Antonio’s front hooves using an animal-safe adhesive. A fun fact about Baird’s tapirs is that they have four hooves on each front foot, with three of them bearing the weight.
During his time under anesthesia, Antonio underwent a physical exam and a blood draw, recovering without any issues in a behind-the-scenes area after the procedure. He will wear the custom “shoes” until they naturally fall off or need to be voluntarily removed, which could happen in weeks or months. At that time, the crack will be checked to ensure proper healing, indicated by the regrowth of the sole material and the digit looking normal.
Now sporting his new shoes, Antonio has returned to his habitat and is adjusting to them. Along with Josie, a 30-year-old tapir, and Mia, a 5-year-old tapir, he rotates between multiple yards in the Rainforest Revealed and Wild Florida loops, offering the tapirs more choices in how they spend their days. If you plan to visit the zoo soon, watch for Antonio in the primary tapir habitat in Rainforest Revealed as he gets used to his new kicks!
Baird’s tapirs, like Antonio, are considered endangered, and all tapir species face threats due to hunting pressure and habitat loss. Brevard Zoo has been actively involved in tapir conservation since 2002, supporting organizations like the Lowland Tapir Conservation Initiative in their research on these incredible animals.
As an independent, not-for-profit organization, Brevard Zoo relies on the generous support of the community to continue its vital animal wellness, education, and conservation programs. By visiting the zoo and contributing to its mission, you protect species like Baird’s tapir and preserve our wildlife and natural habitats.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable work of the animal care staff at Brevard Zoo and the inspiring recovery of Antonio, the tapir with custom “shoes.” Every effort made in the care and conservation of endangered species brings us closer to a world where wildlife thrives and future generations can experience the wonders of nature.
