Maryland Zoo Euthanizes Beloved Aging Giraffe, Angel

BALTIMORE (AP/WJZ) -- The Maryland Zoo has euthanized a beloved, hand-raised giraffe that had been struggling with age-related medical issues for months.
Officials at the Baltimore zoo say they euthanized 17-year-old Angel on Tuesday.

The zoo's chief veterinarian says Angel has had leg and back pain for some time and that her keepers had been using creative therapies to help ease her pain, including ultrasounds, hoof trims and medication.

But Angel's symptoms recently worsened.

"Keepers had seen Angel laying down in the mornings, which was unusual for her," said Dr. Ellen Bronson, chief veterinarian at the zoo. "While we were able to provide her with pain medicine, which made her more comfortable, we realized that her quality of life was declining and the difficult decision was made to euthanize her."

Angel is the last giraffe born at the zoo and was hand-raised by staff. Zoo officials say she was the center of its giraffe herd and that she helped three other female giraffes acclimate to their new home.

"She was also a favorite with guests who were able to feed her at the Giraffe Feeding Station and we will all miss her greatly," said Mike McClure, general curator.
(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Other Local News: