Summary:
1. Snow leopard cubs at the Miller Park Zoo in Illinois underwent physical therapy for a congenital “swimmer’s syndrome.”
2. The cubs were brought to the Omaha Zoo for more intensive therapy and were cared for by dedicated staff.
3. The collaboration between the two zoos showcases the incredible work zoos can do for animal rehabilitation.
4. A virtual celebration was held to mark the cubs’ successful rehabilitation and their return to the Miller Park Zoo.
There’s something truly magical about witnessing the rehabilitation of animals, especially when it involves adorable and captivating creatures like snow leopard cubs. At the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, Illinois, a pair of snow leopard cubs captured the hearts of many as they underwent physical therapy for a congenital condition called “swimmer’s syndrome.” Their journey to recovery was far from ordinary, as they embarked on an extraordinary collaboration between the Miller Park and Omaha Zoos.
Born on August 4, 2020, both the male and female cubs faced a unique challenge. Swimmer’s syndrome, a condition often seen in animals with weak or underdeveloped muscles, affects their ability to tuck their legs beneath their bodies and walk normally. Recognizing the need for specialized care, the cubs were transported to the Omaha Zoo for intensive physical therapy.
The dedication and perseverance of the staff at both zoos were remarkable. In Omaha, the cubs received physical therapy three times a day, seven days a week. With each session, they made progress, slowly and steadily regaining their strength and coordination. Dr. Sarah Woodhouse, the director of animal health at the Miller Park Zoo, acknowledged the incredible effort put forth by the Omaha Zoo staff. She noted, “We just continued what they started and were fortunate enough to have the staff and resources to allow us to provide more intensive therapy.”
The Miller Park and Omaha Zoos collaboration exemplifies the power of working together for a common goal. Dr. Woodhouse emphasized the importance of such partnerships, saying, “It’s so amazing what zoos can accomplish for animals when they are willing to work together.” This sentiment was echoed by Darlene Klimek, the senior keeper of animal health and the cubs’ primary caretaker in Omaha, and Jay Tetzloff, the director of the Miller Park Zoo and coordinator of the Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan.
A virtual graduation ceremony was held to celebrate the successful rehabilitation of the cubs and their return to the Miller Park Zoo. Due to the ongoing pandemic and the vulnerability of the cubs to the coronavirus, the decision was made to ensure everyone’s safety. The celebration was broadcast on our YouTube channel, allowing viewers to share the joy of the cubs’ achievements. The video showcased the cubs’ journey from their initial arrival at the Omaha Zoo to their incredible progress during physical therapy.
Watching the cubs take their first tentative steps, their movements gradually becoming more confident and coordinated, was a testament to the dedication and expertise of the zoo staff. It was a reminder of the tremendous impact that zoos can have on the lives of the animals under their care. Beyond providing a home and ensuring their welfare, zoos are crucial in conservation efforts and rehabilitation programs.
The successful rehabilitation of these snow leopard cubs is a true cause for celebration. It serves as a reminder of zoos’ vital role in protecting and preserving endangered species. The collaboration between the Miller Park and Omaha Zoos showcased the incredible capabilities of these institutions when they come together for a common purpose. It is a testament to the zoologists, zookeepers, and veterinarians’ dedication and passion.
As we bid farewell to the snow leopard cubs, we can’t help but feel a sense of joy and hope. Their journey from struggling with swimmer’s syndrome to confidently walking alone inspires us all. It is a reminder that we can overcome even the most challenging obstacles with dedication, hard work, and the power of collaboration.
So, let’s raise a virtual toast to the snow leopard cubs and the dedicated teams at the Miller Park and Omaha Zoos. May their success inspire us to continue supporting and championing the remarkable work of zoos worldwide. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these magnificent animals and ensure a brighter future for all species.
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Source Description
Happy Graduation Day to two of our patients from the Miller Park Zoo
in Bloomington, Illinois – a pair of snow leopard cubs.
The male and female, born on August 4, 2020, were brought to Omaha about two months ago to undergo physical therapy for “swimmer’s syndrome.” With this congenital condition, the cubs could not tuck their legs beneath their bodies to walk normally.
While in Omaha, the cubs were in physical therapy three times a day, seven days a week.
“We just continued what they started and were fortunate enough to have the staff and resources to allow us to provide more intensive therapy,” said Dr. Sarah Woodhouse, our director of animal health.
“It’s so amazing what zoos can accomplish for animals when willing to work together.”
Dr. Woodhouse, along with Darlene Klimek, our senior keeper of animal health and the cubs’ primary caretaker in Omaha, and Jay Tetzloff, Miller Park Zoo director and Snow Leopard Species Survival Plan coordinator, addressed our local media this morning to celebrate the cubs’ departure home.
The celebration was virtual for everyone’s safety, especially the cubs – who, like other felines, mustelids and primates, are the most at-risk animals for catching coronavirus. Watch on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/tUdQoMdEnGI.
