Mayor Oscar Leeser | El Paso Texas website
Mayor Oscar Leeser | El Paso Texas website
EL PASO, Texas— The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens is currently providing
special care for Savannah, the 71-year-old Asian elephant, who is suffering from arthritis
and localized cancer in her ears.
According to veterinary staff at the zoo, Savannah has progressing arthritis in her joints,
with her left elbow being the most affected, which is causing her discomfort and
decreased mobility. She is currently on multiple oral pain medications, joint supplements,
and an injectable joint supplement. Zoo staff have started stem cell therapy, which has
shown success in helping decrease the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.
The El Paso Zoological Society has graciously funded the treatments through a
dedicated donor and longtime elephant enthusiast, Ms. Barbara Bowman.
Savannah also has localized early-stage cancer in her ears, which is most likely due to
sun exposure over her long life. Zoo staff applies animal-safe sunscreen to her ears to
protect unaffected areas, but the sunscreen cannot reverse the already present damage.
The Zoo is working with oncologists at Texas A&M for a localized treatment. Savannah is
being monitored very closely by zookeepers and veterinarian staff to assess her comfort
and welfare.
“Savannah remains comfortable, and we hope she will respond to both of these new
therapies,” said El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens Director Joe Montisano. “For now,
Savannah will remain on display daily except cold mornings and days where she will
choose to stay in her heated barn.”
Asian elephants are listed as “Endangered” in the International Union for Conservation of
Nature Red List. The life expectancy of Asian elephants is 45 to 50 years old.
Savannah’s longevity is supported by high-quality daily care from zookeepers, excellent
nutrition, preventive and corrective veterinary care, and a safe environment.
About the El Paso Zoo
The El Paso Zoo is a 35-acre facility that houses animals representing over 220 species,
including critically endangered species. Accredited by the Association of Zoos &
Aquariums (AZA), the El Paso Zoo celebrates the value of animals and natural
resources. It creates opportunities for people to rediscover their connection to nature. To
learn more, visit www.elpasozoo.org.
Original source can be found here.
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