Taipei Zoo's 40-Year-Old Cassowary, "Dongshi", Passes Away: Challenges in Caring for Senior Animals

The Cassowary, originally distributed in Australia, is the world's second-largest bird species and is classified as highly aggressive. Since its relocation to Taipei Zoo in 1986, it has been nearly 40 years. Recently, many aging animals have posed significant challenges for dedicated conservationists and veterinarians. The zoo shared that a 24-year-old brown bear named "Xiao Qiao" has suspected metastatic tumors near its groin area and underwent surgery yesterday to recover.

Meanwhile, the 40-year-old cassowary "Dong Shi" from the Australian animal zone passed away due to rhabdomyolysis just two days ago. The zoo admitted that caring for aging animals requires extra attention and care, consistently adhering to the principle of "animal welfare at the core" to provide comprehensive care.

"Xiao Qiao", estimated to be at least 24 years old, was rescued by the government after being abandoned by a circus in 2006. It has consistently demonstrated resilience and lively exploratory behavior. However, during a health check in March 2023, veterinarians discovered that "Xiao Qiao" had a mammary tumor. Surgery was arranged for its removal, and it recovered well with regular follow-ups. Yet, in May of last year, imaging tests revealed lung tumors and thickening of the stomach wall; despite this, its daily activities like swimming and digging remained normal.

Recently, caretakers and veterinarians noticed a suspected metastatic tumor near "Xiao Qiao's" groin area, which appeared to have ruptured. The medical team arranged for anesthesia checks and surgical treatment yesterday. Blood tests during surgery showed no significant abnormalities, but imaging indicated worsening conditions of lung metastases. The team successfully removed the ruptured tumor and sutured it, planning to closely monitor "Xiao Qiao's" recovery while adjusting future medical and care plans accordingly. Due to its old age and selective appetite, "Xiao Qiao's" eating habits fluctuate with the seasons; caretakers are attentive to ensure its strength and appetite remain stable.

The zoo reported that "Dong Shi", the last remaining cassowary in the zoo, was found on the 22nd unable to rise, with decreased activity and poor appetite. After notifying veterinarians, medication was administered alongside close monitoring. However, on the morning of the 23rd, "Dong Shi" was discovered lying in a corner of its enclosure with signs of struggle but unresponsive to nearby personnel. Immediate blood tests and fluid therapy revealed significantly elevated muscle enzyme levels indicative of rhabdomyolysis, likely worsened by repeated attempts to stand.

Considering "Dong Shi's" advanced age and severe condition with a poor prognosis to prevent further suffering, humane euthanasia was decided upon yesterday. Preliminary necropsy results indicated pancreatic lesions suspected to have caused chronic malabsorption issues affecting its health.

The zoo emphasized its commitment to animal welfare principles; regardless of age or health challenges faced by animals, the medical and care teams strive to provide the best possible care. Both "Dong Shi" and "Xiao Qiao" are not just zoo residents but family members whose health will be closely monitored while updates on their recovery will be shared with everyone.

"Xiao Qiao", after being abandoned by a circus in 2006, has shown remarkable vitality and an active exploratory nature throughout its life.