The Houston Zoo rallies behind jaguar, Tesoro, as he recovers from surgery following a serious leg injury.
The Houston Zoo is rallying behind Tesoro, its 11-year-old male jaguar, as he begins his road to recovery following a serious leg injury.
Tesoro fractured his front right leg, requiring immediate veterinary attention and surgery. After a successful procedure in partnership with board-certified veterinary surgeons at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Tesoro was moved to a behind-the-scenes recovery area where he will spend the next several months. In the meantime, guests can visit Tesoro’s lively cub, Rojo, in the South American Pantanal habitat alongside mom, Vida.
Tesoro’s injury was discovered when his animal care team noticed a limp. The team says they are unsure of how he sustained the injury, but X-rays indicated a fractured elbow. The X-ray also showed arthritis and elbow dysplasia, both of which are common conditions for big cats.
The zoo’s team of veterinarians decided surgery would be Tesoro’s best chance at full recovery. As he heals, his animal care team is taking the necessary precautions to keep him calm, comfortable, and safe.
While Tesoro’s team remains optimistic, his recovery is not guaranteed. Ongoing routine check-ups and progress observation will guide treatment and provide him with the best quality of life. Houston Zoo’s team of veterinarians, veterinary technicians, clinic staff, and animal keepers work together daily to ensure top-notch care for each animal.
Wild jaguars are typically found in remote grassland areas of South and Central America. A portion of each ticket and membership at the Houston Zoo supports the Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE): Jaguars program, which is focused on saving jaguars in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize.