Investigation Confirms Zoo Complies with Legislation in Caring for Lucy
January 19, 2011
The Edmonton Humane Society has confirmed the Edmonton Valley Zoo is meeting the standards required by the Animal Protection Act of Alberta in its care of Lucy, a 35-year-old Asian elephant living at the zoo. In a letter sent to the Edmonton Valley Zoo following a review of Lucy’s care, the Society says it is “…satisfied at this time that the zoo is consulting with various experts in the field to ensure they are providing adequate care.”
“We are pleased the Edmonton Humane Society has acknowledged that we are striving to provide Lucy with the best possible care, and that we are continually making improvements based on recommendations provided by experts,” said Linda Cochrane, General Manager of the Community Services department. “We have always welcomed the input of the Edmonton Humane Society and will act on all of the Society’s recommendations.”
The Edmonton Humane Society has recommended the zoo continue its efforts to facilitate Lucy’s ability to exercise in the winter; diagnose and treat her respiratory problem; and manage her weight. The Edmonton Valley Zoo will act on all of the recommendations, which are consistent with Lucy’s treatment program.
“Our priority is ensuring that Lucy continues to receive the best possible care,” said Dr. Milton Ness, Edmonton Valley Zoo Veterinarian. “Lucy is an individual elephant with unique issues and needs – and she must be understood and treated as an individual animal.”
The zoo continues to explore options to ensure Lucy is getting the exercise she needs on the rare days she is unable to walk the zoo grounds due to cold weather. She is currently following an exercise program developed by a veterinarian specializing in rehabilitation therapy. Lucy’s indoor facility meets, or exceeds, all industry standards.
Although elephants usually breathe through their trunks, a respiratory problem means that Lucy breathes through her mouth. Under stress, or during other times of increased need for oxygen, Lucy’s ability to breathe is stretched almost beyond her capacity. As a result, a third party expert, Dr. James Oosterhuis, has concluded moving Lucy would put her life at risk.
Dr. Oosterhuis, a veterinarian with 35-years experience caring for and treating elephants, is returning to Edmonton to conduct another exam of Lucy. The Edmonton Valley Zoo will use these results, and the Edmonton Humane Society’s recommendations, when making decisions about Lucy’s care.
The Edmonton Valley Zoo’s response to the Edmonton Humane Society’s findings and recommendations, and the Society’s letter are available online at www.valleyzoo.ca/Lucy.
For more information:
Mary Lou Reeleder
| Title | Communications, Community Services |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 780-442-0970 |
| marylou.reeleder@edmonton.ca |
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