November 1, 2012
DENVER ZOO MOURNS LOSS OF GIDGET THE
SEA LION
Well-Known Animal was Star of Denver Zoo's Sea Lion Show

"Gidget," a 27-year-old California sea lion and beloved star of the zoo's sea lion show passed away on October 31. The elderly sea lion was having great difficulty moving and was refusing food and medication. Having lost her quality of life, Gidget was humanely euthanized.

"Gidget was a very charismatic animal that charmed millions of guests over the years at our sea lion show. She loved working with her keepers and awing guests with her swimming and agility. We are deeply saddened by this loss. She was adored by everyone that had the pleasure of meeting her," says Denver Zoo President/CEO Craig Piper.

In 2010 keepers began to see signs of stiffness and discomfort when walking. Veterinary staff diagnosed Gidget with arthritis and began treatments with anti-inflammatory medication and pain killers, while keepers altered Gidget's role in the sea lion show. Her participation was modified to include exercises like swimming that were part of her physical therapy and easy on her aging joints. The zoo also worked with outside experts, such as physical therapists and veterinary acupuncturists, to maintain her quality of life. Although zookeepers and zoo veterinarians did everything in their power to keep her comfortable, the 27-year-old sea lion continued to decline. According to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums California Sea Lion Species Survival Plan, the median life expectancy of a female sea lion is 22.3 years.