You probably can’t tell, but zoo animals are graying just like the rest of us. Bears, elephants, giraffes, emus, even snakes are living longer in captivity than they would in the wild. It shouldn’t surprise anyone, since there are no predators to stalk animals at the zoo, plus they’re eating well and getting quality care from keepers, including medical attention.

Actually, it’s the veterinarians who may be most responsible for the longer lifespans, since the aging animals are developing ailments just like humans, often requiring the same procedures, treatment and medicine we get.

Arthritis, for example, is very common among older large mammals. So is heart and liver disease, glaucoma, and weight gain. The big birds and beasts are getting regular check-ups and X-rays and prescriptions to anti-inflammatorys and other meds designed to improve their quality of life and maintain the integrity of the family units within the habitats.

We visited the Philadelphia Zoo, which happens to be the nation’s 1st zoo, established in 1859. It boasts to hosting America’s 2nd oldest Spectacled Langur (a monkey) and the 5th oldest female Giraffe. Our tour also included visits with an arthritic 30-year-old bear and a deeply wrinkled 52-year-old elephant. Keep Reading …