Animal Protection Group Demands Public Release of Medical Records for Alaska Zoo Elephant

Maggie’s Second Crisis Warrants Full Disclosure of Elephant’s Health Status

San Rafael, California—On the heels of a second incident in which Maggie, the 27-year-old African elephant at Alaska Zoo, laid down and was unable to get back up, international animal protection organization In Defense of Animals (IDA) is calling on the Zoo to release Maggie’s veterinary records. As a private facility not subject to state open records laws, Alaska Zoo is not required to publicly disclose records documenting Maggie’s physical condition, but, in a letter sent to Alaska Zoo director Pat Lampi, IDA urged release of the records based on public interest.

“There is sound basis for concern about Maggie’s health, and the public deserves to know the nature and true extent of her condition,” wrote IDA President Elliot M. Katz, DVM. “This can only be revealed through complete disclosure of the veterinary records, therefore, we urge you to voluntarily release the requested information for Maggie.”

Given the high incidence of joint and foot disease in captive elephants, and the zoo’s history of losing an elephant to foot problems, Katz stated it is possible that Maggie may also suffer from these crippling and lethal disorders. He explained, “Foot disorders and arthritis, highly prevalent in zoo elephants, are linked to cramped enclosures, lack of exercise, and hard surfaces like concrete on which elephants are forced stand for prolonged periods, often in their own feces and urine.”

In December 1997, Maggie’s companion, Annabelle, collapsed and could not right herself. News reports indicate that Annabelle was “so sick with infection in her foot and hurting so badly that she couldn’t stand up anymore.” She was euthanized at age 33, half an elephant’s natural lifespan.

During winter, for four months or longer, Maggie is confined indoors to a 1600 square foot concrete cell. IDA and local citizens have long been advocating for Maggie’s transfer to a sanctuary with the space, climate and natural conditions that elephants need to survive.

On Wednesday, IDA asked the USDA to examine Maggie and review her veterinary records to determine whether she is suffering foot disease, arthritis or colic/digestive disorders, and whether she is being maintained on anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers. These drugs can mask Maggie’s symptoms short term, but may be toxic to her internal organs over the long term.

A 2006 IDA survey of medical records for elephants in 35 U.S. zoos found that 63 percent of elephants suffered from foot disease and 42 percent suffered from arthritis. A quarter of the elephants suffered from colic/digestive problems.

For more information, please visit www.helpelephants.com.