TACOMA, Wash. — A tiger living at Tacoma's Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium was euthanized over the weekend after a decline in health.
The zoo said in a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon that Sanjiv, a 13-year-old male Sumatran tiger, was humanely euthanized because he was experiencing "pronounced discomfort" related to a spinal disease.
According to the zoo, Sanjiv was given pain medications, an epidural, laser therapy and acupuncture to try and mitigate the pain but he continued showing signs of discomfort.
Zoo officials said the 13-year-old tiger, who made his debut at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in January 2023, was dealing with renal disease, hypertension and diabetes before he was euthanized. Sumatran tigers typically live 10-15 years in the wild but can live up to 20 years in captivity.
Prior to his death, the zoo said Sanjiv fathered four tiger cubs in 2019.
"Sanjiv was a magnificent ambassador for his species and a beloved figure among both staff and guests," Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium said in its Facebook post. "Our heartfelt thoughts are with all who cared for him. He will be profoundly missed."
Sumatran tigers are considered to be critically endangered in the wild. Only about 400-500 are living on their native Indonesian island of Sumatra. The species has struggled to increase its population due to habitat loss, black-market poaching, conflict with humans and loss of prey.
There are about 70 Sumatran tigers living in accredited North American zoos at this time. There are two female tigers - Kali and Indah - living at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium currently.