By AP
Tulsa, OK – Okla. zoo euthanizes bear that contacted infection
TULSA, Okla. (AP) The Tulsa Zoo says a two-year-old grizzly bear which contracted a progressive and untreatable fungal infection has been euthanized.
Officials said in a statement released Wednesday that Monty had died on Tuesday.
Zookeepers noticed an abscess on Monty's back and veterinary staff began routine therapy with antibiotics and a regular cleaning of the area. After his treatment proved to be ineffective, cultures and biopsies were taken and the results showed the fungus was infiltrating the bear's tissue.
Senior Staff Veterinarian Kay Backues says the infection quickly became systemic and resistant to treatment.
Monty and his mother, Rainy, arrived at the Tulsa Zoo in September 2010 after being captured in Montana for repeatedly foraging for food in areas near human populations.
Zoo officials say Rainy is still acclimating to the exhibit.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.