It is with a heavy heart that I write this first part of my blog. Brahma’s sudden and unexpected passing has saddened all of the Africa keepers. He was a very special dog that achieved great things in the short amount of time we were given with him. Brahma’s grumpy old man demeanor (or that’s what it seemed like to me) was balanced out by his exceptional skills as a father and provider. The care he gave Imara and his offspring was amazing to watch and rare for alpha male dogs in the States. During this difficult time, I just personally wanted to thank all of you for the positive thoughts and the kind words that have been expressed to us. The other Africa keepers and I truly appreciate the support.
In spite of the short journey we had with Brahma, we still have a long way to go with the 10 beautiful young ones he and Imara created. The future is a bit uncertain at this point. We will manage the pack for the most part the same. Imara has taken this all in stride. The first couple of days after the loss of Brahma, I would catch her looking for him. I think she realizes what has happened, but that she still has a job to do and guiding her puppies into adulthood is her number one priority. Luckily for us, Imara is young and resilient. At about 35 lbs each, the pups are becoming a handful, but so far she is doing a great job. She is definitely still keeping them in line which you will often see on exhibit. Imara is not afraid to teach them a lesson, which is important since she is solo now.
We would not bring in another male at this time. The Species Survival Plan (SSP) for African painted dogs meets this fall and will decide which dogs go (or stay) where. For now, we will continue to enjoy Imara and the pups as they get bigger and bigger. I am secretly hoping one of the boys has been gifted with Brahma’s personality. So come on out and enjoy Brahma’s legacy and watch them change right before our eyes.
I am so very sorry for his passing. My husband and I were so impressed with Dana’s care and obvious love for Brahma and Imari when we were there visiting last December, and were fortunate to speak with her at length about these fine animals. At the time, Dana suspected Imara was pregnant, but it was not confirmed. I am sure your hearts are breaking. May Brahma’s spirit live on through his ten pups.
I cried when the news first broke and cried just now reading your blog. He truly was a beautiful animal, and when we were at the Zoo on Member’s Night, I took so many pictures (87 to be exact) of just the Painted Dogs….I have several of Brahma that are wonderful, by himself, with Imara, and with some of the pups. His legacy will continue on through those pups…may he RIP. <3
What a tragic turn of events after all the happiness of past months in Africa. You all have made this a beautiful exhibit and another great part of our Cincinnati Zoo. Thanks for all you do and continue to do in the care of these beautiful animals!
I want to thank you for a wonderful exhibit!
A friend, her little daughter and I got to go about a week or so before Brahma’s passing. The painted dogs were my absolute favorite area of the zoo. The pups and their shenanigans were hilarious to watch (from falling into water, to trying to catch dust bunnies on the other side of the glass). They were beautiful to watch, especially when running.
Thank you.
We were there this past Thursday. It seemed sad to see all the pups just laying in the grass all huddled together, and Imara laying on the ground a few feet away, as they all seemed to dealing with Brahma’s not being there with them.
To all of the keepers in Africa…hugs and special thoughts. It is hard to lose someone special but doubly hard in this case.
I got to see the proud parents and their pups when I visited the zoo over a month ago. I am so sorry for the loss of Brahma. Thank you keepers for taking such great care of the painted dog family. I look forward to seeing the pups and their mother during my next visit to the zoo.
I’m so sorry to hear of the tragic loss of Brahma. I know you and all the keepers will go out of their way to make sure Imara and all the pups cope with his loss. I’m so glad his legacy will live on with those wonderful very fast growing pups.
I am so sorry for your loss. Brahma’s life was way too short. He deserved to see his pups grow up. Ina e to stop since my eyes are welling up with tears.
Thank you for sharing all your inside thoughts and knowledge. He was beautiful and we will continue to see him through the lovely legacy times ten he has left us…wherever they wind up, we have this time to enjoy them and remember Brahma at the same time. He spent his life well.