TOLEDO, OH (Press Release) - The Toledo Zoo is sad to report that Legend, one of two white lions on loan from Siegfried & Roy, died today following a diagnostic procedure.
Recently, keepers noticed Legend exhibiting front left leg lameness. He was immobilized today to allow veterinary staff to determine the source of discomfort. Legend was under anesthesia for approximately one hour while vets treated three over-grown toenails and an inflamed nail bed. The white lion was stable throughout the procedure, including an ultrasound of the heart which indicated no obvious issues. When the procedure concluded, Legend was removed from anesthesia. While still on oxygen, he suddenly went into cardiac and respiratory arrest. The veterinary staff worked quickly to revive the lion but were ultimately unsuccessful. Legend was 14 years old.
“Animal deaths are always difficult, but Legend's is even more so because of its sudden and unexpected nature.” said Dr. Ric Berlinski, Zoo chief veterinarian. As with any immobilization and the administering of anesthesia, there are always risks. However, this was a necessary quality of life procedure. While Zoo staff cannot speculate on a cause of death, a gross necropsy and histopathology tests will be performed.
“Because of the amount of time our dedicated animal care staff spends caring for the animals they become like family. This is a very sad loss for our entire Toledo Zoo family,” said Ron Fricke, deputy director of the Zoo.
The Toledo Zoo is home to Legend's brother, Courage, who is 14 and will continue to reside in Tembo Trail.
