Keeping our animals healthy

Our mule “Elvira” has been losing weight over time despite our zookeepers efforts to fatten her up.  The veterinarian has been monitoring her health and body condition for awhile now and we have been following her recommendations for diet additives and supplements.  This recent check up was to re-evaluate what we are doing and formulate a plan for future diagnostics.  Elvira has had blood drawn which showed no major abnormalities.  Today she got her spring vaccines and a thorough check up.  Dental work and an ultrasound will be scheduled.  Elvira is 28 years old, has a good attitude and full of beans otherwise.  The staff will continue to monitor her daily and offer prescribed supplements. 

We would like to ask visitors to refrain from bringing in carrots and apples to feed our animals.  It distracts them from the quality diet they are receiving from zoo staff.  There are issues with unknown treats being offered to animals.  Many may not know that apple seeds contain cyanide and consumed in quantity can cause illness or stomach upset.  You don’t know the health conditions or species specific sensitivities of each animal in the collection.  We want you to know that we closely observe all of our zoo animals daily, sometimes many times per day.  They are in good hands.