Statement on Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Zebra

March 11, 2010 - Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® and its veterinary staff, along with the veterinary team at The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, are disheartened to announce that Lima, the zebra which got out of the Ringling Bros.® animal compound while the Circus was in Atlanta on Thursday, February 18, has been euthanized.

Following the incident, Lima was sent to the veterinary hospital at the University of Georgia on February 19, 2010. Since then, Ringling Bros. veterinarians, working in close consultation with the veterinary team at the University of Georgia, performed extensive examinations and tried numerous medical treatments to repair damage to the zebra’s hooves. Sadly, the treatments were not successful.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey extends its heartfelt appreciation to the veterinarians and other staff at the University of Georgia for the diligent and expert care provided to Lima.

The circumstances surrounding the incident in Atlanta were immediately reviewed and within 24 hours United States Department of Agriculture officials were onsite. Corrections to procedures were promptly implemented by Ringling Bros. In addition, management has evaluated and will continue to review Company policies and procedures to ensure that its animals remain safe and secure.