The Greater Vancouver Zoo announced the death of its 18-year-old African lion, Boomer, on Wednesday, April 8.
The zoo said Boomer experienced a “rapid decline in his quality of life” in the days leading up to a euthanization decision due to end-stage renal disease.
He had been receiving treatment for the condition since last year.
Boomer was found as a young cub near a highway in Quebec and was first placed at the Granby Zoo before arriving to Aldergrove’s Greater Vancouver Zoo at the age of three.
At that time, he was a sub-adult, just beginning to develop his mane.
“Over the years, Boomer grew into one of the Zoo’s most iconic animal ambassadors, helping to raise awareness for his species and the challenges facing African lions in the wild,” said the zoo.
He was the most senior lion in the zoo’s care and had been living with chronic kidney disease. The zoo said this was a progressive condition common in older felids.
The zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams supported him through a care plan that included special nutrition, daily monitoring, medications for kidney function, and regular veterinary assessments.
However, as his condition advanced, the zoo shifted from active treatment to palliative support, while maintainin his comfort. This was done through providing enrichment and a familiar routine.
“In recent weeks, Boomer’s condition declined significantly,” the zoo wrote, as he sustained a loss of appetite and was in discomfort.
“When it became clear that medical interventions were no longer effective in maintaining his comfort and dignity, our team made the difficult but compassionate decision to allow him to pass peacefully.”
In the wild, African lions generally live 10 to 14 years.
The zoo said Boomer lived a long life, and will be remembered by staff and visitors.