Elephant care in the Krefeld Zoo: Foot care as in humans!

Elephant care in the Krefeld Zoo: Foot care as in humans!

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is known for its variety of zoos, and the Krefeld Zoo is one of the smaller facilities in this region. Around 930 animals from around 140 species live here, including a group of nine elephants who need special care. Regular foot care is particularly important because the elephants in Zoos do not cover the same distances as in the wild. Instead, they are accommodated in enclosures, which can lead to specific health risks if their feet are not regularly checked.

Foot care takes place by an animal nurse who is equipped with a special hoof scraper. This care takes place in a large box in which the elephants are known by a thick grille, also known as the "training wall", from which nurse are separated. This practice enables the nurses to work safely and effectively without restricting or forcing the animals in their natural movement to participate in the program. After treatment, the elephants receive an ointment, similar to the one used in foot care salons for humans.

importance of regular pedicure

The regular pedicure is crucial to avoid serious health problems among the elephants. This is necessary because these animals can easily open their feet and toenails when running, which leads to painful inflammation. As a rule, it is recommended that elephants receive a manicure in zoo two to three times a year to secure their health in the long term.

In Germany, a variety of zoo elephants hold, currently around 25, and the Krefeld Zoo is one of the facilities that take care of the well -being of these majestic animals. There are different forms of husbandry for elephants that differ in their security level and interaction with people. A very common method in German zoos is the "Protected-Contact", in which nurses are separated from the animal by a protective grille. This is particularly important, since elephant bulls have to be kept in the must's phase, a time increased aggression potential.

The further development of the attitude of elephants in Zoos shows a growing awareness of the well -being of the animals. In the past 40 years, smaller enclosures have been replaced by larger, natural systems. Social structures are taken into account in order to offer the elephants a life that is more based on the conditions in nature. This includes, for example, the preservation of family associations and the minimization of veterinary interventions that require anesthesia.

The Krefeld Zoo, whose advice and structure by Dr. Stefanie Markowski is managed to maintain high standards in the field of animal care and attitude. Interested parties can contact the zoo at info@zoookrefeld.de or find further information on the Find website of the Zoo Krefeld