Special Little Boots Give Penguin At San Diego Zoo A New Lease Of Life

In a heartwarming tale out of the San Diego Zoo, an African penguin named Lucas now has a new chance to thrive in life with the help of specially-designed boots, meant to aid the waddler, who is suffering from a degenerative foot condition. 

Wildlife health and care specialists, in collaboration with national organization Thera-Paw, created and fitted the penguin with custom-made orthopedic shoes, made out of neoprene and rubber, that will prevent pressure sores from developing on his ankles and feet. 

According to the zoo, Lucas was diagnosed with a chronic condition known as bumblefoot—an umbrella term used to describe avian degenerative foot conditions that could range from mild discomfort to deep abscesses. 

Unfortunately, if left untreated, the condition could lead to further complications such as sepsis and death by secondary infection. The team had first tried to treat it with medication and acupuncture, but were unsuccessful.

Hence, the wildlife team set out to create a solution that would enable Lucas to be as comfortable as possible in daily life, with the boots both protecting the lesions already formed on his feet, and minimizing the chance of developing more sores. 

“I’ve known Lucas for a long time, so having the ability to provide him with a chance to live a normal life brings a smile to my face,” said Dr Beth Bicknese, Senior Veterinarian at the San Diego Zoo. 

“The boots are cushioned and Velcro-ed in place, so they will help Lucas to fully participate in the colony and showcase behaviors that are more typical for a penguin—such as climbing the rocks, swimming, nesting, and finding a suitable mate.” 

After being fitted with the new boots, Lucas’ gait improved, had better ability at navigating the rocky habitat, and had better balance while standing. 

“We were pleasantly surprised at the immediate change in Lucas after we fitted him with his new boots,” said Debbie Denton, Senior Wildlife Care Specialist at the San Diego Zoo.

“Seeing him move about now gives us hope that he may be ok going forward, and able to live a full life,” she summed up. 

[via CBS8 and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, images via San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance]