Lee Richardson Zoo mourning the passing of giraffe

Garden City, Kan.–Lee Richardson Zoo is mourning the passing of “Juani”, a sixteen-year-old male reticulated giraffe. Juani had been undergoing veterinary care for a hoof issue, which continued despite treatment and Animal Care staff working with him during voluntary sessions. The next step in his care plan required him to be anesthetized. On Sunday, November 2nd, a farrier who specializes in exotic hoofstock, as well as veterinary staff from the Sedgwick County Zoo and Rolling Hills Zoo, joined the Lee Richardson Zoo team for the procedure. Radiographs and a physical examination showed the extent of the issues with Juani’s hoof. At that time, the difficult and compassionate decision was made to humanely euthanize him.

“Due to the severity of the hoof issue and the impact it had on his health, it was the only choice we could make.” said Zoo Director Kristi Newland. “The preparations for the procedure were on point. The collaboration was wonderful. The induction (Juani going under anesthesia) went smoothly. It goes to show you that you can have everything right but still not get the desired results. We know he will be missed by zoo staff and guests alike.”

Juani arrived at Lee Richardson Zoo in 2011 from the Indianapolis Zoo. While at Lee Richardson Zoo, he sired three calves. The youngest of the calves, Miguu, along with Miguu’s mother, Cleo, reside at the Zoo.

In the wild, giraffes are facing a crisis due to habitat loss, poaching, and other threats. Thanks to conservation work by groups like the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, there are some signs of a positive turn in trends. Visit their site, giraffeconservation.org, or Lee Richardson Zoo to learn more about the tallest mammal in the world.

For More Information Contact: Kristi Newland, Director, or Joe Knobbe, Deputy Director, at 620-276-1250 or [email protected] or [email protected]