BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — CALM Zoo announced the passing of two Mule Deer, Radar and Odie.
In a social post, it said Radar was nearly 18 years old and had spent almost his entire life at CALM. CALM said Radar came to them as a rehab fawn from a facility down south, along with Odie.
“Radar quickly became a staff and public favorite, always eager for attention and interaction. Over the past several years, he developed arthritis, which we were able to manage thanks to dedicated husbandry and medical care,” said in the post. “Recently, however, his condition became too severe to keep him comfortable, and we made the compassionate decision to help him pass peacefully.”
CALM Zoo announced the passing of two Mule Deer, Radar and Odie. PHOTO: CALM
Odie was 17 and was more reserved and shy for much of his life. CALM said Odie preferred to keep his distance until the dedication of one of his animal keepers, Jessica, helped him gain trust and confidence.
CALM Zoo announced the passing of two Mule Deer, Radar and Odie. PHOTO: CALM
The post said, “Through patient training, he learned to cooperate with routine medical care, daily medications, and even voluntary exams, allowing him to live comfortably for many years despite his own arthritis.”
“It is a testament to the incredible care and expertise of the animal keepers that both Radar and Odie lived full, enriched lives,” said CALM. They recognized that their work in station training, injection training, and daily husbandry allowed these deer to thrive well beyond typical wild mule deer lifespans, which average 9 to 11 years.
“Radar & Odie brought joy and love to everyone they met and will be greatly missed. Thank you to everyone who helped care for these special boys,” said CALM.