Summary:
– Humphrey, a Bactrian camel calf, recently underwent surgery to repair a broken leg.
– Leg repair in large hoofed animals like Bactrian camels is often challenging.
– Unfortunately, an infection was discovered in Humphrey’s leg bone, leading to the difficult decision to euthanize him.
– Losing any member of the zoo family is hard, especially when it’s a young animal.
– The zoo staff, particularly Humphrey’s caregivers, are deeply affected by this loss.
On July 19, our beloved Bactrian camel calf, Humphrey, had to undergo surgery to repair a broken leg. This was a challenging and risky procedure, especially considering the size of a Bactrian camel. You see, leg repair in large hoofed animals can be quite complicated. The fragile nature of the bone and the immense weight these animals bear create a unique set of challenges for veterinarians and zookeepers.
Despite the inherent difficulties, we were cautiously optimistic because Humphrey initially responded well to treatment. We knew the odds were against us but remained hopeful for his recovery. However, during the routine process of changing his cast and taking radiographs, our veterinary team made a disheartening discovery – an infection had developed in Humphrey’s leg bone.
The news weighed heavily on our hearts. We consulted with multiple veterinarians to explore any possible next steps, but after careful consideration, we had to decide to euthanize Humphrey. This was not a choice we took lightly, but it was the most humane option for him.
Losing any member of our zoo family is incredibly tough, but when that member is a young one, it hits even harder. Humphrey’s playful energy and curious nature had endeared him to staff and visitors alike. He had a bright future ahead of him, and it breaks our hearts to know that we will never get to witness his growth and development.
Throughout this challenging time, one small silver lining has been the behavior of Humphrey’s mother. She has shown no adverse signs or behavioral issues despite their separation since his injury. This comforts us, knowing that she is coping as well as can be expected under the circumstances.
But the zoo staff, particularly Humphrey’s caregivers, have been hit the hardest by this loss. They dedicated countless hours to his care, forming a bond with him unlike any other. When you work with animals, you become emotionally invested in their well-being, and their loss takes a toll on you.
So, as we mourn the loss of Humphrey, we ask that you keep our zoo staff in your thoughts. They pour their hearts and souls into caring for these incredible creatures, and their dedication shines through in the love and compassion they show every day. The loss of Humphrey has left a void in our zoo family, but it is a testament to the strength of our team that we will continue to provide the best care possible for our remaining animals.
In conclusion, Humphrey’s story reminds us of life’s fragile nature and the challenges we face in caring for these magnificent creatures. It is a reminder that sometimes, despite our best efforts, tragedy strikes. But it is also a reminder of the tremendous love and dedication within the zoo community. Together, we mourn the loss of Humphrey while honoring his memory and the impact he had on all of us.
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Source Description
On July 19, Humphrey, our Bactrian camel calf, underwent surgery to repair a broken leg. Veterinarians and zoo staff concluded his mother accidentally stepped on him. However, the injury was not witnessed, so we cannot be completely sure. He has been living inside the zebra barn for time to heal. Leg repair in hoofed animals, particularly in those of significant size like a Bactrian camel, is often unsuccessful. Still, we have been cautiously optimistic as he initially responded well to treatment.
Unfortunately, his professional animal care and veterinary team discovered an infection in his leg bone while changing his cast and taking radiographs today. After consulting with multiple other veterinarians to determine any possible next steps, the extremely difficult decision was to humanely euthanize Humphrey.
Our hearts are hurting. Losing any member of our zoo family is incredibly difficult, and losing a young one makes it much harder. Humphrey and his mom have been separated since his injury, and we have some peace in reporting she’s shown no adverse behavioral signs. The hardest hit is the zoo staff, particularly his caregivers. Please keep them in your thoughts during this emotionally challenging time.
