A popular and beloved member of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo family has died. Zoo leaders say George, a domestic Bactrian camel died following complications from dental surgery.
He was taken to Cornell University earlier this month for a severe and persistent tooth infection. But George experienced unexpected complications during recovery. His keepers worked 12-hour shifts, traveling to Ithaca to provide round-the-clock beside support. They were at George’s side when he passed.
"Every medical procedure involving anesthesia carries a degree of risk, but this outcome was both unexpected and devastating,” said Dan Meates, Zoo Director. “The level of dedication shown by his keepers, who stayed with him around the clock, speaks to the profound bond they shared.”
He arrived at the zoo in 2018, where he became a staple of education programs and was a frequent “guest” at weddings.
