Jazz, the abandoned baby giraffe, dies

On 6 December, the Rhino Orphanage announced the passing of their orphaned giraffe calf, affectionally named Jazz. The abandoned animal was brought into their care in the last month, where their watchdog Hunter, a Belgian shepherd, quickly befriended him.

According to a Facebook post made by the Rhino Orphanage, Jazz was unwell for two days before he died. ‘Jazz started looking unstable on his legs and very dull, almost like he wasn’t registering everything. He suddenly collapsed and we could see blood starting to pool back into his eyes. Jazzie’s heart rate dropped and he showed neurological systems.’

His best friend, Hunter, remained by his side until his last breath. The vets disclosed that Jazz had hyphema, which is when blood pools in the eyes, as well as a brain hemorrhage.

The vets believe that this could have been caused by a genetic defect, or an under-developed valve system, making Jazz unable to regulate his blood pressure to his brain, causing bleeding between the ventricles to occur.

‘Hunter is doing well. He stayed till the end and said his goodbyes. He sat in front of Jazz’s empty room for a while and then went to our carers for comfort. We will update everyone on his progress as he can now get back to training to be a tracking dog. He is eating well and playing with his brother again. Such a good boy,’ said the post.