Baby giraffe ‘Zuri’ doing well but next exam is 'critical'

CINCINNATI - Zuri, the 11-week-old baby giraffe had her second scheduled doctor’s visit since breaking her leg in May.

Cincinnati Zoo veterinarians and zoo keepers performed the procedure indoors at Giraffe Ridge. They say the one hour procedure of removing her cast, taking X-rays of her leg and putting a new cast on went well.

Since Zuri is growing rapidly so they need to check on her leg every 2 to 3 weeks to make sure the cast fits properly. Vets say the next exam will be the most critical.

“After 4-6 weeks since the injury, I would like to see some callus forming at the site of the injury, which would indicate the healing process has begun and is progressing as hoped," said Dr. Mark Campbell, Director of Animal Health and the Cincinnati Zoo.

Zuri continues to walk and interact with her mother, Tessa. She will remain indoors to help avoid irritating the injury.

Zuri, Tessa, and her father, Kimba, can all be viewed at Giraffe Ridge.