May 23, 2007

VANCOUVER AQUARIUM DOLPHIN HANA DOING WELL AFTER MISCARRIAGE

Vancouver, BC: The Vancouver Aquarium's 12-year-old Pacific white-sided dolphin, Hana, appears to be doing well after miscarrying late yesterday afternoon. The calf was six to eight weeks premature, as Hana was not due to give birth until July or August.

“It’s been difficult for us because staff here, especially the dolphin trainers, were looking forward to a successful birth, but we are very glad that Hana is doing well,” said Aquarium veterinarian Dr. Marty Haulena. “Caring for Hana is our top priority.”

This was Hana’s second pregnancy and miscarriage. The Aquarium’s animal care team are pleased to see that she is eating well and has good energy. Animal care staff will continue to monitor her progress 24 hours a day. The Aquarium’s medical team, including a pathologist at the Provincial Animal Health Centre, are performing a necropsy on the fetus.

Last night, Dreamnight, an evening at the Aquarium where over 350 children with life threatening illnesses and their families get to meet aquatic creatures up close, continued as scheduled and was extremely successful.