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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's Hogle Zoo announced the death of one of its oldest residents: a southern white rhino who was fighting cancer.
George the rhino was "humanely euthanized" Wednesday, the zoo said in a statement. At 48 years old, George was one of the oldest southern white rhinos under human care and one of the Hogle Zoo's longest residents.
George was experiencing dental disease, muscle atrophy and "a general slowing down," the zoo said. Earlier this year, George was diagnosed with rapidly advancing cancer in his rear left leg; but due to his age, size and thick skin, no long-term treatment options were available.
In November, his animal care team discovered two additional masses on the back half of his body.
"George received special bedding and flooring, supplements, medication and treatment to support his comfort. The treatment plan was modified daily if needed as a dedicated team of zoo experts — including veterinarians, keepers and operations — worked together to provide George with the highest level of care," the zoo said.
Southern white rhinos live in grasslands, savannas and shrublands throughout southern and western Africa. They are the third largest land animal after the two elephant species.
Four of the five rhino species are threatened with extinction, three of which are considered critically endangered due to poachers, habitat destruction and "human-wildlife conflict," the zoo said. The zoo partners with the International Rhino Foundation to support the preservation of the animals and prevent further harm to the species.
