The oldest male polar bear in North America was euthanized at Brookfield Zoo Friday, zoo officials announced.
The 32-year-old animal named Aussie was experiencing "a number of age-related degenerative diseases," a statement from the Chicago Zoological Society, which manages the zoo, read.
Aussie managed to live for years longer than he would have in the wild, officials said, but suffered from degenerative arthritis in his legs. He was on a variety of pain relievers but over the past several weeks, "veterinary and animal care staff noticed a gradual decline in his condition and decreased response to medications."
“Our primary focus is always the wellness of our animals," Dr. Michael Adkesson, vice president of clinical medicine for the Chicago Zoological Society, said in a statement. “Aussie has been part of our family here at Brookfield Zoo for more than 30 years, and today is a difficult day for our team. However, it is the best decision for Aussie as medications could no longer control the pain associated with his age-related arthritis. Our staff could tell his comfort was really declining and knew it was the right time. It is very similar to the tough decisions that people must make for their pets at home in deciding when to say goodbye.”
Aussie was born at Adelaide Zoo in Australia in June 1985. During his time at Brookfield Zoo, he produced five offspring, including an 11-year-old bear named Hudson, who is also at Brookfield Zoo.
