Update on Abu the Giraffe

The Animal Care and Veterinary Teams at Zoo Atlanta are pleased to share that a significant veterinary procedure for Abu, a 14-year-old male giraffe, was successful. The teams continue to monitor Abu closely following the procedure, which carried a high risk for complications.

Zoo Atlanta announced on May 6 that Abu, who at 14 is within the geriatric frame of the typical giraffe lifespan, required hoof trimming to slow the progression of arthritis in his front left foot, which the teams had been treating with anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications for some time. The procedure required general anesthesia, which is risky for older individuals, and especially for giraffes. The teams were joined by an external professional team specializing in the hoof care of giraffes.

Abu was up and walking not long after the procedure, and as of May 8, appears to already be experiencing positive effects of his treatment. The teams will continue to observe his behavior, as post-procedure complications may still occur even days after the event.

Visit zooatlanta.org to learn more about Abu and the other two members of his herd, younger males Etana and Isooba.

CONTACT:         
Rachel Davis, Director of Communications
404.624.2812 – office 
404.309.2238 – cell
rdavis@zooatlanta.org

ABOUT:               
About Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta is temporarily closed. A proud accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard for animal care and welfare, Zoo Atlanta has a mission to save wildlife and their habitats through conservation, research, education and engaging experiences. The Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world, many of them endangered or critically endangered. Highlights include giant pandas, including Ya Lun and Xi Lun, the only giant panda twins in the U.S.; one of North America’s largest zoological populations of great apes; and a global center of excellence for the care and study of reptiles and amphibians. Recent transformations include the all-new African Savanna, featuring new and expanded habitats for African elephants, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, warthogs and meerkats, and Savanna Hall, a state-of-the-art special event destination in the newly restored historic former home of the Atlanta Cyclorama. For more information, visit zooatlanta.org.