11-year-old African wild dog euthanized at Denver Zoo

DENVER ( KDVR ) — The matriarch of the endangered African wild dog pack at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance was euthanized this week.

Tilly, the 11-year-old wild dog, was showing signs of increasing discomfort, loss of appetite and difficulty walking, according to the Denver Zoo. The zoo said the animal health and care team made the “difficult yet compassionate decision” to relieve Tilly of her suffering.

“Tilly was known for her joyful and energetic personality. She greeted her caretakers with excitement, actively participated in daily routines, and quickly learned new behaviors,” said the Denver Zoo.

According to the zoo, Tilly was one of the only African wild dogs to be trained for abdominal ultrasounds. She provided information about utero puppy growth, helping support the growth of her species.

“Her playful nature and unique behavior have left a lasting impact on her care team who are comforted knowing these special traits live on in her sons, Nigel, Livingstone and Theodore,” said the zoo.

Denver Zoo caretakers remember Tilly

On Facebook, the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance shared some memories of Tilly from those who knew her best.

“Tilly was such a fun animal to work with. Tilly’s energy and spunky personality will be greatly missed,” Karli N., animal care specialist.

“Tilly was an incredible African wild dog. Tilly has held a large place in our hearts and was truly one in a million,” said Jordan S., animal care specialist.

“Tilly was playful and bold, and that is something we now get to see in her three sons, each taking on some part of her behavior. She is the dog that made me love African wild dogs so much,” Katelyn S., assistant curator of carnivores.

The Denver Zoo invites everyone to share their favorite moment or memory of Tilly on Facebook.

African wild dogs can live up to 11 years in the wild, per the National Geographic. The animal’s scientific name is Lycaon pictus, meaning “painted wolf,” which refers to their irregular, mottled coat that features patches of red, black, brown, white and yellow fur.

National Geographic said African wild dogs are often hunted and killed by farmers who fear for their livestock and have benefited from wildlife conservation programs like the Denver Zoo.

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