Sad news from Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is very sad to announce that female Asian elephant Gay has been put to sleep.

Gay developed abscesses on her front feet in July 2008. Despite extensive in-house treatment supported by a range of veterinary and elephant experts, it was concluded that there was nothing more that could be done for her. Her welfare was reduced and her quality of life deteriorating. The abscesses spread to all four feet. Gay also had arthritis.

She was put to sleep by the Zoo’s vet team early this morning.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park Director of Operations and Curator of Mammals Neil Bemment said: “Our vet team and animal staff did absolutely everything they could. We tried a range of treatments and consulted any number of experts. It became clear that we had done everything we could for her and that there was no option but to put her to sleep.

It is very, very sad, but we know that we have done the right thing for her. The welfare of the animal is paramount. Anyone who has ever cared for a pet or kept livestock has to face times like this. It was not an easy decision but it was the right decision.

This is an upsetting and emotional day for the staff, volunteers, members and visitors to Paignton Zoo Environmental Park.”

The Zoo’s in-house team was supported by vets and pathologists Jon Cracknell, the zoological director of Marwell Wildlife and veterinary advisor to the British & Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria elephant focus group, and Mark Stidworthy, from the International Zoo Vet Group.

A book of condolences will be opened at Paignton Zoo for members and visitors to sign. Messages can be sent online to info@paigntonzoo.org.uk.