The Bedford Estates, LondonIt is with very heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our elderly bush dogs, Dante and Scrappy Dappy Doo.
On Thursday 27th June, the bush dogs' dedicated team of specialist vets and keepers came to the sad conclusion that Dante and Scrappy's quality of life had declined rapidly due to increasing age-related health issues, and it was decided that the kindest thing to do would be to put them both to sleep peacefully.
We took this wonderful species on as a pack of six from a collection that was closing down; at this time, these animals were already on the older side so they had a fantastic and secure retirement home with us. They enjoyed exploring their habitat as a pack and could be very vocal at times.
In light of this sad news, the European studbook holder for Bush Dogs has commended us on our exceptional level of care for these animals. Dante was the oldest bush dog in the whole of Europe by three years - reaching the ripe old age of 13. Scrappy was the second oldest by two years - reaching 12 years of age. Amazingly, Dante was also the third oldest bush dog in the world.
Both dogs were very popular characters in our Foot Safari who could often be seen tucking into plenty of meat, tearing into cardboard boxes filled with tasty treats made by their devoted keepers. They never failed to make the keeping staff smile on a daily basis.
Dante and Scrappy were well loved and will be sorely missed by all of their keepers and visitors.
Statement Written by Head of Animal Encounters, Catherine Doherty