BOISE, Idaho — Zoo Boise announced Tuesday morning that Dean the Llama has been euthanized. Dean had age-related changes, including a recurring ulcer on his left eye and arthritis in his right legs. Recently, his health had a decline, and the poor prognosis and quality of life were deciding factors in his euthanization.
Dean was almost 22 years old and made Zoo Boise his home in 2003. He was named after Dean Martin and was one of four llamas at the zoo named after the Rat Pack.
“Dean was one of the most popular animals at Zoo Boise. Whether he was enjoying getting his back scratched from guests at the Zoo Farm or greeting his adoring fans at Zoobilee, he always brought a smile to the people he met,” said Zoo Boise Director Gene Peacock. “This tough decision was made all the harder by our current situation. Knowing Dean’s age and condition, we had hoped to be able to invite the public, our volunteers and staff to say goodbye, but current conditions couldn’t allow for that to happen.”
Dean helped raise over $260,00 for the Zoo Boise Conservation Fund since the Zoo Farm opened in 2010. The fund supports the protection of wild animals in Idaho and the world.
Zoo Boise invites the public to share a favorite picture they have with Dean on the zoo’s social media pages with #deanthellama, so the joy he brought to the community can be remembered.
