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OKC Zoo Announces Euthanization of Young Giraffe due to Deformity

Incident Date:
05/29/2025
Location:
Oklahoma City, OK - USA
Facility Name:
Oklahoma City Zoo
Facility Type:
Accredited AZA Facility (AZA)
Incident Category:
Animal Death (AD)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Giraffe
Animal disposition:
Dead

Summary:

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden (OKC Zoo) has announced they have euthanized their youngest giraffe due to a deformity. According to the zoo, the deformity developed in young giraffe, Azizi’s, hind legs, affecting her growth.

According to Dr. Gretchen Cole, Director of Veterinary Services, “Unfortunately, there was no known cause or cure for Azizi’s condition. We had been monitoring the development of her legs closely and suspected an abnormal formation or growth of her hip or femur bones was the cause. A recent examination and radiographs confirmed that Azizi’s growth plates were prematurely closed and that her condition would only continue to deteriorate, impacting her quality of life.”

Action take by Born Free USA:

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