Idaho Falls Zoo euthanizes camel calf
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - The Idaho Falls Zoo announced Thursday its Bactrian camel calf Humphrey had to be euthanized.
On July 19, Humphrey underwent surgery to repair a broken leg. Veterinarians and zoo staff concluded he was accidentally stepped on by his mother. The injury was not witnessed; however, so staff can't be completely sure. He has been living inside the zebra barn to allow him time to convalesce. Leg repair in hoofed animals, particularly in those of significant size like a Bactrian camel, is often not successful, but staff have been cautiously optimistic as he was initially responding well to treatment.
Unfortunately, his professional animal care and veterinary team discovered an infection in his leg bone while changing his cast and taking radiographs Thursday. After consulting with multiple other veterinarians to determine any possible next steps, the extremely difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize Humphrey.
"Our hearts are hurting," the zoo said in a Facebook post. "Losing any member of our zoo family is incredibly difficult and losing a young one makes it that much harder. Humphrey and his mom have been separated since his injury, and we have some peace in reporting she’s showed no adverse behavioral signs. The hardest hit are the zoo staff, particularly his caregivers. Please keep them in your thoughts during this emotionally challenging time."
