Arthritic elephant in US zoo gets EEEEEEEEEEEE-width shoes
08 Sep 2016
An elephant at the National Zoo in Washington has received a large pair of shoes to help with her arthritis.
The Washington Post reports that Shanthi, a 41-year-old Asian elephant, was recently fitted with Washington's largest pair of Teva boots for her front feet. The boots are about a size 20, with a mind-boggling EEEEEEEEEEEE width.
Zoo curator Tony Barthel said Shanthi's arthritis has caused her to lean forward on her front feet, stressing them. Zoo veterinarians treated the arthritis with injections and topical treatments, but needed a way to keep debris out of the fissures in her feet.
Digital scans of Shanthi's feet were taken and sent to footwear company Teva.
Keepers say the swelling in Shanthi's left front foot has eased, and she is more mobile.
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