PREVIEW

Gladys the gorilla is well on the mend after having an innovative titanium cast removed on Wednesday (12July2024).
The cast, the first of its kind, was placed on Gladys's broken arm in late April. The removal of the cast, which weighed an extra eight pounds, went smoothly, and veterinarians report that her arm is healing well.
Dr. Jessica Heinz, a veterinarian at the Cincinnati Zoo, expressed optimism about Gladys's progress.
"Her X-rays looked really good today," Dr. Heinz reported. "We also had a physical therapist here during the procedure to put her arm through some exercises. We saw really good improvement in her range of motion, and I’m optimistic that as the gorilla team does more PT with her, she’s going to get a lot of that motion and muscle back."
Ashley Ashcraft, the zoo's primate team leader, outlined the next steps for Gladys's rehabilitation.
"We will work with Gladys and help her navigate spaces that allow for more climbing so she can tap into her natural instincts. Her troop will remain in sight around the clock, aiding her transition as she rebuilds her arm muscles."
Gladys has already begun participating in physical therapy training sessions. Her keepers have noted her voluntary engagement in stretches and workouts even while the cast was on, and they are confident she will continue with this routine.
While a date for Gladys's return to her habitat has not been set, her progress will be monitored daily, and plans will be adjusted as needed. Victoria McGee, the zoo's zoological manager of primates, assured that the well-being of the entire gorilla troop is a priority.
"Keepers will continue to observe the gorillas and make needed management adjustments to set them up for a successful re-introduction. Silverback Mbeli is a confident and patient leader for his troop, and we expect him to handle this process well."
The zoo's dedication to Gladys's recovery highlights their commitment to animal welfare and the innovative approaches being used in veterinary care for zoo animals.