The Isle of Wight Zoo has announced the death of Mondo, a 16-year-old former circus tiger.
Mondo, who arrived at the zoo in 2018, had been suffering from degenerative musculoskeletal issues affecting his mobility and, ultimately, his quality of life. Despite physiotherapy and pain management, the zoo were unable to significantly relieve his health issues.
Staff have explained tonight how they sedated and x-rayed the big cat to investigate his condition and found serious arthritic changes in his spine and shoulders which the veterinary team concluded were simply too severe.
The decision was taken to put Mondo to sleep.
In their tribute to Mondo, the zoo have described him as a “real gentleman who commanded respect from all who stood in his company”.
Beautiful, majestic creature. At least his final years were in peace and comfort, must have been a difficult decision
RIP mondo.loved seeing you at zoo when I came