GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - With a heavy heart, the John Ball Zoo announced the passing of Jody, a 31-year-old chimpanzee.
She experienced a sudden decline in health on Monday, April 23, that resulted in a heart attack. The zoo's animal care and veterinary teams responded immediately. They were able to restart her heart after 20 minutes. Unfortunately, she was not able to breathe on her own.
The decision was made to humanely euthanize her the next day.
Staff at the zoo said Jody was very special to all who knew her, cared for her and interacted with her.
"We are very proud of those who tried to save her and those who helped aid staff in their efforts," said Peter D'Arienzo, John Ball Zoo's Chief Executive Officer. "We are all saddened that she is gone. She was greatly loved part of the Zoo family."
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