City Of Frankfort Releases Statement Regarding Death Of Alpaca From TPA Park Petting Zoo

The City of Frankfort released a statement regarding the death of an alpaca from the TPA Park Petting Zoo following recent deaths of two deer and two chickens as well as eight violations that were filed by the USDA in December 2023.

The City stated that it has actively been working to ensure the health and welfare of the animals at the TPA Park Petting Zoo and Aviary in collaboration with a veterinary team consisting of a local veterinarian and experts from Purdue Veterinary Medicine. The City stated that the team has been closely monitoring the condition of the animals, providing regular check-ups and addressing any emergency concerns, including a recent issue with Houston the alpaca.

According to the City, the veterinary team recently observed that Houston was experiencing nutrition-related issues that they determined were likely stemming from dental health concerns, which resulted in the alpaca being transported to Purdue for further dental care. During the visit, additional health complications were reportedly discovered, and Houston developed an unknown infection that led to a rapid decline in health.

The City stated that despite efforts to stabilize Houston, the veterinary team was consulted, and the decision was made to euthanize Houston to prevent further suffering. A necropsy is set to be conducted to fully understand the underlying health issues beyond dental concerns, and the City stated that the findings will be shared with the public once available.

“I am deeply saddened by this lost and the ongoing challenges with the health of the animals at the park,” Frankfort Mayor Judy Sheets said. “I have been in close contact with the veterinary team, and I am fully committed to ensuring that all animals receive the best possible care. I appreciate the public’s understanding and support during this difficult time. I will continue to work to resolve these issues and ensure the health and welfare of the animals in the future.”

In additional to the necropsy of the alpaca, Purdue Veterinary is conducting necropsies of the chickens and deer which passed earlier this month. The results of the necropsies are still being analyzed by the veterinary team, and the City expects to receive the full results within the next few weeks. The City released that once the results are finalized, they will be made available to the public.

Sheets and the Parks Department released reminders of a few important points at TPA Park, including:

Animal Care is Our Priority: We are fully committed to ensuring the animals are receiving the highest quality care, nutrition, and management to support their well-being.

Please Avoid Feeding or Introducing Foreign Objects: The animals’ diets are carefully managed, and feeding them or placing foreign objects in their enclosures can harm their health. Please help us ensure their longevity by following park guidelines.

Ongoing Veterinary Collaboration: Our Parks Department continues to work alongside veterinary experts to explore any necessary modifications to improve the care and management of the animals.

The City stated that Sheets and other city leaders are aware that the public may be concerned in regards to the health of the animals, and those with further questions may contact the Mayor’s Office to express their concerns.

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