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I have a heart-happy orangutan story
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ZOO317 Zoo To You_Spring 2022.indd
ZOO317 Zoo To You_Spring 2022.indd
for you.
Tengku, the male orangutan at the Fort Wayne Children’s
Zoo, has a special heart. He’s a peacekeeper by nature, a
kind father to his daughter, Asmara, and a great ambassador
animal for Sumatran Orangutans; and it’s our responsibility
to keep Tengku’s special heart beating strong.
As Tengku ages, his risk for heart disease increases;
therefore, we have been closely monitoring his heart health
for years. He voluntarily participates in blood draws, which
gives us the ability to monitor his organ functions, and
ultrasounds, which allow us to track his muscle function
and blood fl ow. Along with being trained for routine
electrocardiogram (ECG) readings and blood pressure
readings, the Zoo has taken every step to make sure this
35-year-old orangutan’s heart stays happy – but we are
always striving to improve our care.
In January, Zoo sta , along with an entire team of animal
healthcare professionals, took a revolutionary step in great
ape cardiac advancements. In partnership with the Great
Ape Heart Project, Tengku was recommended to receive
an Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR) device – a tool that
tracks cardiac function when inserted through a small
incision near his heart.
Tengku is only the second orangutan to have a
successful ILR device inserted and working. With this
new development, we’re able to scan the device and
information is sent directly to his Keepers and a Great Ape
Heart Project Cardiologist for analysis.
Keeping Tengku’s special heart happy is one of my favorite
jobs here at the Zoo. Every single day, lots of people are
coming together to brainstorm new ways to keep Tengku,
and orangutans like him, happily swinging and creating
even more special memories with guests.
Written by Keeper Angie
5/9/22 9:14 AM
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