BioPark’s Andean bear recovering after surgery

"Ben is an amazingly resilient animal and is adapting well,” said Dr. Carol Bradford, Senior Veterinarian. “We are optimistic that between the removal of the infected area and continued immunotherapy treatment that this young bear will continue to thrive and do what he does best: climbing, swimming, and digging.”

Ben’s animal care and veterinary team noticed a “hot spot” when he arrived at the ABQ BioPark last fall. He had a small wound on his front right paw and had a tendency to lick and agitate the spot. Medical intervention was required, and despite treatment, the issue intensified resulting in biting and intense chewing. 

Veterinarians diagnosed the infection as Pythiosis – a rare water mold-based infection typically found in wet, humid, tropical regions. Although not contagious, this infection, unfortunately, does not respond to antifungal treatments. Multiple measures were taken to relieve Ben’s discomfort and halt the spread, yet the infection persisted and was at high risk of spreading. The infection had invaded the bones of Ben’s toes and some surrounding blood vessels.

After consulting with multiple veterinary and pathology experts, it was determined that amputation of the infected area was the only treatment option that would prevent the water mold from spreading further throughout Ben’s body. On February 3, a veterinary surgeon removed Ben’s front right paw up to the elbow. He has been recovering behind the scenes and is adapting beautifully—already choosing to explore his outdoor habitat and resuming his normal, natural behaviors.

Guests might notice that the remainder of Ben’s arm has been shaved to reduce the chance of infection during the medical procedure. His care team expects his fur to grow back quickly and will continue to observe Ben closely to assess his recovery and adjustment to the procedure.