Zoo Atlanta Announces Preliminary African Elephant Necropsy Results

ATLANTA – November 5, 2008 – Zoo Atlanta was saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected loss of 26- year old African elephant Dottie on October 28, 2008. The exact cause of death has not been determined; however, Zoo Atlanta received preliminary necropsy results from the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

The preliminary finding is that Dottie had acute pneumonia. The cause of the pneumonia is not known at this time. In addition to confirming Dottie had acute pneumonia, preliminary tests conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are negative for tuberculosis.

Final necropsy results and a possible cause of Dottie’s passing are expected from the Department of Pathology and the Infectious Diseases Laboratory at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, and the Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in approximately one month.

Dr. Sam Rivera, Interim Director of Veterinary Services at Zoo Atlanta, assisted with the initial necropsy and continues to work with colleagues at the University of Georgia. “Dottie’s pregnancy appeared to be progressing well. The unborn female calf was well formed and weighed approximately 160 pounds,” said Rivera. Dottie was in the third trimester of her first pregnancy.

“Zoo Atlanta is grateful for the outstanding work, expertise and professionalism of our colleagues at the University of Georgia’s College of Veterinary Medicine. They have brought comfort to the staff at Zoo Atlanta during this difficult time,” said Dennis Kelly, President and CEO. “Dottie was an irreplaceable member of our family, especially to the staff who worked with her daily, a dear and close friend. We are extremely touched and would like to thank everyone for their kind words and condolences.” Officials at Zoo Atlanta are currently planning a memorial event for Dottie and will share the details soon.

Dottie was one of three African elephants at Zoo Atlanta. She has been at Zoo Atlanta with Tara and Kelly since November 1986.   

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