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Rabbit Advocacy Animal Matters
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Former Toronto Zoo elephant euthanized at California sanctuary Thursday, July 23, 2015 qp24.com An elephant that roamed the grounds of the Toronto Zoo for almost 40 years before being sent to a California sanctuary in 2013 has been euthanized after a long battle with degenerative foot and joint disease. Iringa was put down on Wednesday at the PAWS sanctuary in San Andreas, California. According to officials at the sanctuary, Iringa was 46-years-old, making her one of the oldest African elephants in North America. "Iringa was special to us," PAWS President Ed Stewart said in a press release. "She enjoyed roaming the hills of the habitat and eating natural vegetation year-round. I'm very proud of the keeper and veterinary care we provided, along with the peaceful life we gave her at our sanctuary." Iringa and two other elephants from the Toronto Zoo were sent to the PAWS sanctuary in October, 2013 following a campaign by animal rights activists who argued that the Toronto climate was too cold for elephants. The push to transfer the elephants even attracted the attention of animal activist and former “Price is Right” host Bob Barker, who contributed $700,000 toward the transfer of the elephants. “We are heartbroken and while we are filled with overwhelming sadness we take comfort in the memories this spectacular elephant provided to our staff, volunteers, members and the millions of visitors who were fortunate enough to meet Iringa over the years,” the Toronto Zoo said in a statement issued Thursday morning. Iringa was born in Mozambique, Africa, in 1969. She was then sent to the Toronto Zoo in 1974. According to the statement put out by the Toronto Zoo, Ingra will be remembered as a “wonderful blend of intelligence and unpredictability” who kept zoo keepers on their toes “with her frequent attempts to steal the treats bucket.” September 30, 2013 Goodbye Toronto Zoo elephants; updates TO elephants arrive at California sanctuary June 23, 2016 Bowmanville Zoo to close after 'damage is done' by abuse allegations; charges stayed 2017 More news under Animal Exploitation & Pet Shops/Rabbits/Legislation |