Published June 29, 2025. Updated October 10, 2025.
Supporting positive welfare at every stage of an animal’s life is integral to the Zoo’s mission. One of our oldest residents is Snowflake, who at age 29 is the second oldest polar bear in an accredited facility in the United States.
Our animal care team carefully monitors her for conditions associated with advanced age to increase her quality of life. Snowflake is currently treated with medication for both a cardiac issue and a chronic skin allergy.
Providing opportunities for choice and exerting control in daily life is also a vital component of her positive welfare. This is why guests may not always see Snowflake when they visit. Her off-exhibit area is divided into several spaces that can be adjusted to offer different environments and enrichment experiences. These comfortable inside areas help keep Snowflake cool in summer and avoid any physical or behavioral strain.
As we navigate the challenges of Snowflake’s aging, we will be sharing our animal care staff’s daily efforts to support her well-being in her golden years. Regular updates will be pulled from actual zoo email communications so that everyone can appreciate the care she is being provided in our staff’s own words. Keep watching for updates!
Late Summer – Early Fall 2025: Easing into Autumn
Thursday, October 9, 2025
Training: Snowflake had a really good session today. Plan to attempt to vaccinate in 2 weeks.
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Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Animal Care: Snowflake received 100% of her October Ivermectin dose.
Enrichment: First day of access to the exhibit again (due to public pathway construction).
***
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Training: Immunization training. Snowflake held beautifully on target until bridged while the second person stood in position holding the syringe.
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Monday, October 6, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake was swimming in the porch pool and interacting with a toy at 9:10 AM.
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Sunday, October 5,2025
Behavior: Snowflake was seen rolling in her hay pile in Den 4 twice throughout the day.
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Saturday, October 4, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake was seen in the “sploot” position (rear legs flattened out behind her) while resting in the hallway by Den 2 around 1:50 PM for about 20 minutes.
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Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake had a very small amount of blood on her rear as well as a very slight odor this morning.
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Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Training: Immunization training. Snowflake held on target until bridged while the second person was holding the training syringe approximately 1 inch away from the bars. This was the most successful session to date.
***
Sunday, September 28, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake has access to holding only until further notice for Pier Town construction.
***
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Enrichment: *VISUAL ACCESS ONLY* Snowflake got some unplanned visual enrichment (window cleaning) on exhibit from pier town. She watched the whole time while the outside windows were being cleaned.
Medical Note: Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak around 11:40am. She hovered over the water intermittently instead of staying seated throughout the soak duration.
***
Friday, September 26, 2025
Enrichment: *VISUAL ACCESS ONLY* Snowflake was given visual enrichment (bat lights) from the conference room window to the exhibit.
Medical Note: Snowflake was observed doing some hunched sitting this morning.
***
Monday, September 22, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake had a Chlorhexidine soak today during the second feed, she hovered over the water instead of sitting during the full duration of the soak.
***
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Medical Note: Furosemide AM dose, 95%, Snowflake spit out the furosemide but later ate the pill off the ground and some residue was left on the ground.
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Friday, September 19, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got an ice cake on exhibit. The first layer was a herring ice treat and the second layer was an applesauce ice treat. Lettuce, carrots and sweet potato were added on top of the ice cake.
***
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Training: Reintroduced verbal “dart” into training session today. There appears to be a link between using the verbal and Flakey not holding for as long as needed to vaccinate, she is also huffing more when it is used. When only “hold” is used she is stationing better and for an appropriate duration. JF to continue additional sessions with other keeper staff to find alternative options.
Enrichment: *VISUAL ACCESS ONLY* Snowflake was provided visual enrichment (rainbow streamers) from pier town to exhibit. She looked at the enrichment but did not interact.
Medical Note: Snowflake was observed heavy breathing today.
***
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Enrichment: Large red ball (visual access only) through window in conference room while Snowflake was on exhibit beach – she watched the ball the entire duration. Big red ball rolled back and forth at the exhibit window.
***
Monday, September 15, 2025
Enrichment: Visual access only – football thrown in front of exhibit/ pool window. Snowflake watched the entire duration. “Back to school” sign on pier town with fish scatter (visual access only).
Previous Snowflake Updates
Sunday, September 14, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake was seen swimming this morning before the first feed.
Training: Snowflake’s tongue present was not great for “fake” drop at the AM session.
Medical Note: Snowflake was doing some hunched sitting in the hallway while locked in holding for cleaning.
***
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake got a Chlorhexidine soak. She hovered above the water quite a bit.
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Friday, September 12, 2025
Enrichment: Visual Access Only. Snowflake was provided with visual enrichment (green light up ball and pinwheel) from the tunnel. She looked at both items.
***
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Training: Great injection training session with Flakey today. Went through the new routine we came up with a couple of session ago and it is going really well. Flake held for an appropriate duration 3/4 times during this session. Will bring back in “dart” phrase at next session so see how Flake reacts.
***
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake stationed for the last feed with her rear in the air (downward dog like position), indicating some possible discomfort in her vulva area. She did eventually relax into a down position, but this is abnormal for her to station in this position
***
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Enrichment: Fish hidden throughout the dens.
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Monday, September 8, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake appeared to have slightly lower energy today, resting more frequently than what is typically observed. This could be a normal seasonal change.
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got a herring ice toy (disc shape) with 3 capelin on trop thrown to the rock area of her exhibit pool from the roof. She got in the water. Snowflake was provided visual enrichment (ribbons and bobbin toy) while she was in the exhibit from Pier Town. She looked at the enrichment.
***
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Animal Care: Snowflake received 100% of her September Ivermectin deworming dose.
Enrichment: Frozen shroom room toy given on exhibit; lettuce and carrot scatter from the roof into the exhibit in PM.
***
Friday, September 5, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake was provided visual enrichment (balloons) from Pier Town to exhibit. She looked at them briefly.
Medical Note: Snowflake stationed for the last feed with her front half down but keeping her rear raised in the air, indicating some discomfort either in her rear legs or her rear end. She eventually laid down, but in a splooting position which is unusual for her during a feed.
***
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Training: Snowflake participated in an IM training with her trainer. Bone meat was used as the primary reinforcement. Great session. Keeper was able to stand in the position needed to deliver the vaccine, also was able to hold the syringe only about 4 inches away from the mesh this time. Keeper felt comfortable that she could get the injection at this distance. Shift doors were open this session. Did not do the verbal cue for injection, instead trainer asked Flakey to hold for the duration it took keeper to move the plunger to the end of the syringe. Flakey held really well. Will consider adding the verbal cue back into the session to see how she does with that. At this time, we have not made a plan to move the syringe any closer than keeper currently holds it from the mesh. May mimic the injection motion as Flake continues to be solid on her hold duration.
***
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Training: Snowflake held nicely on target while small approximations were made (by the second person) in holding the syringe closer to the bars.
Medical Treatment: Pimobendan PM dose, 50%, spit out one pill into her drinker. Tis was only discovered the following morning. (9/3/25)
***
Sunday, August 31, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake was given fish and sweet potato balls hidden in the dens and porch areas.
Medical Note: Snowflake had very stiff rear legs when getting up from the last feed in Den 2, her left leg seemed to have a slight limp while leaving the den.
***
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Animal care: Snowflake was 592 lbs. (4 lb. increase from her previous weight.)
***
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake had a very small amount of blood on the fur surrounding her tail again today. She received a chlorhexidine soak this afternoon. She was still hovering while in a seated position, but relaxed more into the water than she has been in recent soaks.
***
Friday, August 22, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got a rectangular herring ice toy with meat and fish on top. On top of this toy was another toy with produce inside.
***
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Enrichment: Carrot scatter in den 1 and 2. Fish scatter from the roof on to the exhibit.
Third Week of August: Swims and Scatters
Sunday, August 18, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake stopped at the end of the second feed to drink water. She also burped during the second feed.
Enrichment: Herring ice treat topped with 4 capelin and applesauce in Den 2. Capelin and herring hidden in ice pile under half ball with holes on exhibit beach. Fish in pool for third feed from Pier Town window. Target at Pier Town window during pool scatter feed for third feed. Tour with larger group and two children in holding area.
***
Saturday, August 17, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake burped during the second feed. Snowflake stopped once during the third feed to drink water.
Behavior: Snowflake was observed swimming in the morning.
Enrichment: Snowflake participated in a tour in Den 1 at the third feed. Snowflake received the following items throughout the day: herring ice treat (Den 1, ice cake: 2 layers of herring ice treats topped with capelin and applesauce (Exhibit).
***
Friday, August 16, 2025
Medical Note: Pimobendan AM dose, 50%. She appeared to have gotten a full dose, but during the AM cleaning of the dens, a capsule was discovered in den 1, so she must have spit it out. Snowflake burped following the first, third, and fourth feeds.
Enrichment: Snowflake was provided with the following items throughout the day: herring ice treat (Den 2 – under the bars), 2 herring ice treats with meat and produce (Exhibit). Snowflake was given a produce scatter through the chute in Den 1 and Den 2. Snowflake participated in a tour at the third feed in Den 1.
***
Thursday, August 15, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake chose not to participate in a soak at the last feed.
Behavior: Snowflake was observed swimming in the exhibit pool on two occasions today.
Enrichment: Frozen watermelon slurry disc (Den 1). Tour with four guests and two staff members in the polar bear holding area observing a feed in Den 1.
***
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Enrichment: Fish and produce scatter (Roof to Exhibit).
Training: IM session with second person desensitization. Made progress with Snowflake today. Was great when keeper did the darting motion, but very huffy when other keeper moved. During the session I mentioned that my finger placement on the plunger can change how quickly I am able to inject, and that I would ideally use my thumb to make it go as quickly as possible. To do that I would have to stand slightly perpendicular to Flakey and that may throw her off. We tried it and Flake seemed ok. Also discovered that Flake seemed more comfortable if i held the syringe about 8 inches away the whole behavior rather than move it from my side for the mock jab. She did not react at all to the syringe being there. No mock jabs were attempted with this new line up, we plan to try that at future session.
Snowflake was slightly reactive again to the second person doing the movement of a mock injection during today’s session, but recovered very quickly and was willing to immediately line back up and hold on target. For the remainder of the session, Taylor (vet tech) just held out the syringe in front of her without attempting any more mock injection movements while Snowflake held on target- this went very well.
***
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
Enrichment: The following items were administered to Snowflake throughout the day: 2 herring ice treats, fish scatter (roof to exhibit). Snowflake participated in a den 1 training session tour for a group of 5 people.
***
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake was seen laying in the exhibit pool in the afternoon. Snowflake was observed swimming in the exhibit for approximately 5 minutes. She was interacting with some floating enrichment.
Training: Snowflake participated in an IM training session. Bone meat was used as the reinforcer.
Enrichment: *VISUAL ACCESS ONLY* Snowflake was given visual enrichment (jolly ball) in the tunnel. She did not engage. Snowflake was given a fish and produce scatter on exhibit from the roof.
***
Monday, August 11, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake received a Chlorhexidine soak at her third feed – she was frequently standing and hovering over the water. Snowflake had blood on her rear during the first feed in the morning around 10:00 a.m.
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink water before the last feed and after around 3:45 p.m. Threw away approximately 1/4 of a lb of meat due to Snowflake burping at last feed – indicating she was full.
Enrichment: Medium watermelon ice treat and large herring ice treat topped with produce (exhibit). Produce hallway mesh (bars).
Training: This session was very successful and in front of a tour. Snowflake backed up one full step after given the visual and verbal cues. The behavior is considered finished, however we will continue to work on passing it off to other keepers, as well as consistency with backing up more steps.
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got produce on a large circle float in the exhibit pool. Fish scatter into pool for third feed
***
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake was observed sitting in a hunched position near the ice cave area of the exhibit this morning. Snowflake was observed pawing at her face this morning.
Enrichment: Items administered at various times throughout the day: herring ice treat (Den 1); herring ice toy treat with capelin – EED: Boomer ball (Exhibit). Teal disk EED (Exhibit Pool).
***
Friday, August 8, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake was observed doing some heavier breathing while lying down on exhibit this morning. Blood was observed on the fur surrounding Snowflake’s rear after the third feed. Staff reported that Snowflake appeared slightly more “subdued” this afternoon. It was noted that she was slower to approach station at the third and fourth feeds.
Enrichment: Herring ice treat slid under bars (Den 4). Scatters performed at various times throughout the day: carrots through chute (Den 4), carrots on ledges of bars (Den 1 + Den 2).
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink water twice during the second feed. Snowflake drank water and burped after the last feed.
***
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Training: Had an ok session with Flakey this afternoon. She was very calm for each line up and when keeper did the mock injection. When another keeper tried the injection, she huffed very loudly and broke station. We were able to get her to reset pretty quickly and station well. Decided to not push her too far and end the session on a positive note. Snowflake was slightly reactive to the arm movement of the mock injection during this session, but lined right back up and held beautifully on target following this.
Medical Notes: Snowflake received 100% of her monthly Ivermectin dose today. Snowflake had a loose stool overnight in Den 4. Snowflake received a Chlorhexidine soak today. Snowflake was observed swimming in the exhibit pool this morning.
Enrichment: Herring ice toy treat topped with capelin – EED: White cube (Exhibit).
***
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got a boomer ball with produce on exhibit.
Medical Note: Snowflake burped 3 times and drank 2 times at the 2nd feed. Snowflake had diarrhea in Den 4 after the last feed.
***
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink two times during the last feed.
Medical Notes: Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak at the second feed today. She was still doing some hovering during this soak rather than fully sitting down in the tub.
Enrichment: Lettuce hanging from the bars of Den 2. Cylinder within in a cylinder with produce inside given on exhibit.
Training: Snowflake held beautifully for the arm movement of the mock injection (by a second person) during this session.
***
Monday, August 4, 2025
Behavior: Snowflake swam in the pool several times today and interacted with enrichment in the pool.
Enrichment: Shroom room toy with frozen herring inside – in exhibit pool after cleaning.
***
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Medical Note: Snowflake burped during the second feed. Snowflake stopped to drink once during the last feed. Snowflake swam twice in the early am.
Enrichment: Snowflake got a 2-layer ice cake with herring ice treats as the layers on exhibit. The cake had peanut butter, meat and capelin on it. Snowflake got a produce scatter through the chutes in Den 1 and Den 2.
***
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake stopped to drink water one time during the second feed. Snowflake was observed scratching her tail region in Den 1 after the last feed. Snowflake had a very loose stool in Den 4 after the last feed. Snowflake was observed doing some heavy, open mouth breathing and hunched sitting in Den 4 following the last feed.
Enrichment: Scatters performed at various times throughout the day: produce scatter through chute (Den 1 + Den 2); Carrot scatter through chute (Den 4); Fish scatter (Roof to exhibit). Items administered at various times throughout the day: Herring ice treat topped with meat and lettuce through chute (Den 1); Herring ice toy treat – EED: green half box with three holes (Exhibit).
***
Friday, August 1, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake had loose stool in Den 1 and Den 4. Snowflake was observed heavy breathing during AM checks.
Enrichment: Snowflake got a produce scatter in the mesh and chutes of Den 1 and Den 2. Snowflake got a herring ice toy (XL half ball) on exhibit with peanut butter, capelin and produce on it
***
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake received a salt soak. She was hovering over the water when asked to sit a few times during this soak. Snowflake left the soak once but came back. Snowflake drank once during the last feed. She drank twice right after the feed ended.
Enrichment: The following items were administered to Snowflake throughout the day: herring ice treat in Den 1, herring ice toy (1/2 bobbin toy frozen on a circular disc toy) with meat and applesauce on top on exhibit. Snowflake got a produce scatter on exhibit.
Thursday, July 31, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got a produce scatter from the roof to the exhibit.
Diet: Snowflake drank one time after the 3rd feed ended.
***
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake burped after the third and fourth feeds today. She was also making some grumbling noises after lying down following the fourth feed. Unsure if these were related to indigestion. Snowflake stopped to drink one time during the third feed and two times following the fourth feed. Snowflake swam in the exhibit pool before the first feed today and again following some enrichment.
Training: Great injection training session with Flakey today. We started with standing just a couple inches further away as that seemed to really put her on edge at last week’s session. She did have some huffing when keeper was doing the mock jab, but after a couple successful line ups, I was able to do the arm motion and hold it near her for a full second before withdrawing. Flake did really well for my poke. Decided to end the session there on such a great note.
Enrichment: Frozen boomer ball with capelin, herring, honey, and apple sauce given on exhibit.
***
Monday, July 28, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake receive a Chlorhexidine soak at the second feed – she hovered her rear above the water for the majority of the soak. Snowflake stopped once to drink during the first feed.
Enrichment: Fish scatter from roof of exhibit. Herring ice treat
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake drank 2 times at the first feed. Snowflake burped once at the first feed. Snowflake burped twice at the third feed, one during the feed and another louder burp after the feed ended. Snowflake drank once during the last feed.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Active (5)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 32.5/1
Location(s) on exhibit: Chute; hallway; exhibit beach
Extra notes: Snowflake doing some hunched sitting during one of the respiration rates in the hallway
Enrichment: Snowflake got a half circle toy with meat and fish covered by a half ball on exhibit.
***
Saturday, July 26, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake drank once after the 3rd feed. Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak. She was hovering over the water instead of sitting and fully submersing her rear into the soak.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (1 Active – 15/1; 1 Resting – 11/1)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 13/1
Location(s) on exhibit: lying on exhibit beach
Enrichment: Snowflake got a herring ice treat in Den 1. Snowflake got a boomer ball with lettuce inside on exhibit.
***
Friday, July 25, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake burped at the end of the third feed. Snowflake drank water once during the third feed. Snowflake had some loose stool overnight and some diarrhea in the late afternoon in Den 4. Snowflake still appears to be more stiff in her rear legs when getting up after having been sitting or lying down.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both: 1 Active, 1 Resting
Average RR/ 1 minute: Active: 35/minute; Resting: 12/minute
Location(s) on exhibit: Hallway and Exhibit
Enrichment: The following items were administered throughout the day: 1 herring ice treat in Den 4 and 1 herring ice treat in Den 1. Snowflake was provided with a produce scatter in Den 1.
***
Thursday, July 24, 2025
Medical Notes: 2 loose stools in Den 4.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (1 Active -27/1; 1 Resting – 12/1)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 19.5/1
Location(s) on exhibit: sitting on exhibit by the water, lying in den 4
Extra notes: snowflake was leaning on her RIGHT arm while sitting on exhibit
Diet: Replaced approximately 1lb of Nebraska meat with bone meat.
Training: Tried the session with keeper standing closer to the mesh, to mimic where they would be standing for the real injection. Flakey seemed a little bit bothered by this as she was less willing to line up all the way or for the normal duration. Unable to do any practice injections. Focused on desensitizing her to keeper and where they need to stand for future sessions.
Enrichment: The following items were administered throughout the day: fish scatter on exhibit from the roof and applesauce on Den 1 and 2 bars/mesh. Snowflake was provided a herring ice treat in Den 1.
***
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Medical Notes:
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (2 Resting – 12/1, 12/1; 2 Active – 20/1, 32/1)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 19/1
Location(s) on exhibit: sleeping on exhibit near water, sitting in hallway by den 1, laying in den 4
Extra notes: snowflake was displaying some hunched sitting during one of the active respiratory rates
Salt Soak
Salinity: 30 ppt
Notes: Snowflake hovered over the water a lot this session.
Due to improvement of genital appearance and odors, will not extend Clavamox at this time. Since she will be off antibiotics and there has not been a huge improvement with the probiotic, will discontinue at this time as well.
Behavior: Snowflake was observed swimming in the a.m.
Diet: Approximately a pound of Nebraska carnivore was replaced with a pound of bone meat.
Enrichment: Snowflake was given 2 herring ice treats with meat, capelin, and applesauce on top on exhibit. Snowflake participated in an over training session in the chute at the last feed. Bone meat was used as reinforcement.
Training: Moderately successful back up session with Snowflake in Den 1. Snowflake was given the verbal and visual cue to “back up”. She took one full step back in a slight diagonal direction. After asked to back up again (to continue to back up further) she offered her spin instead. The second time she was asked, a fish was thrown under her to initiate a more straight back up and to have her take more steps back. She was asked a third time and this was more successful. She still had a slight diagonal direction after taking a few steps back. The goal is to have her continue to back up in a straight line more consistently.
***
Tuesday, Jul 22, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake burped two times during the last feed today- once at the beginning and once at the end. Snowflake had one loose stool overnight in Den 4.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both: Active, Resting
Average RR/ 1 minute: Active: 32/minute; Resting: 22/minute
Location(s) on exhibit: Hallway, exhibit
Behavior: Snowflake swam in the exhibit pool this morning.
Enrichment: Offered at different times: produce scatter from the roof on to exhibit and fish scatter from the roof on to exhibit. Frozen cylinder topped with meat and capelin given in Den 2. Fish hidden throughout the dens.
***
Monday, July 21, 2025
Medical Notes:
Daily Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (1 active, 1 resting)
RR/ 1 minute: 40/1; 8/1
Location(s) on exhibit: exhibit beach; Den 4
Extra notes: Separated the two instead of giving the average because of the large difference between both RR’s
Behavior: Snowflake was swimming in the am, diving and interacting with a pill toy in the pool (around 7:45 a.m.).
Enrichment: Produce scatter (roof to exhibit), fish scatter from front of exhibit into pool, Herring ice treat (Den 1)
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Medical notes: Snowflake had two loose stools in den 4
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (2 active; 1 resting)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 28/1
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting or lying in hallway/ den 1 doorway
Salt Soak
Salinity: 15 ppt
Notes: A lot of hovering over the water. She stood up after each fish or piece of meat was given to her.
Enrichment: Half of the second feed thrown from the roof onto the exhibit. Pill toy thrown from roof into pool with herring frozen inside and small amount of capelin
***
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Medical Notes:
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting / Active /Both: Both
RR/1 minute: 32/min, ~14/min, 47/min
Location(s) on exhibit/holding: Sitting on exhibit near water, lying on exhibit near water, lying on exhibit near water
Extra notes: Looking around/sniffing during 47/min rate
Salt Soak
Salinity: 21 ppt
Notes: Hovering rear above water level
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink four times and burped once at the first feed.
Enrichment: Snowflake participated in a desensitization training session to the rabies vaccine syringe. Items administered at various times throughout the day: produce through chute (Den 1 + Den 2), lettuce through mesh (Den 4), fish and produce (Exhibit). Medium watermelon ice treat (Exhibit)
***
Friday, July 18, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak today for her irritated tail region.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting / Active /Both: Both
RR/1 minute: 40/min, 22/min, 36/min, 14/min
Location(s) on exhibit/holding: Sitting on exhibit near water, sitting in hallway near Den 1, sitting in hallway near Den 1, lying in Den 4 hay pile
Behavior: Snowflake was observed swimming in the exhibit pool this morning.
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink water once at the third feed.
Enrichment: Carrots rolled under the bars (Den 1). Items administered at various times throughout the day: herring ice toy treat – boomer ball – with capelin added (Exhibit) and herring ice treat (Den 4)
Training: Retrieve. Snowflake did not initially respond to the visual and verbal cues but then did choose to retrieve the disc in Den 1 and place it in front of the bars. When asked for a retrieve again, she pushed the disc away but then started to slide it under the bars. The goal is to have her fully slide the disc under the bars to consider the behavior complete.
***
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 4 overnight. Snowflake was observed sitting in a hunched position in the hallway this morning. Her breathing appeared to be heavier at this time.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting / Active /Both: Both
RR/1 minute: 29/min, 36/min, 16/min
Location(s) on exhibit/holding: Sitting in hallway looking into Den 1, standing in hallway looking into Den 1, lying in Den 4
Salt Soak
Salinity: 15 ppt
Notes: Hovering rear end above water level
Diet: Approximately one pound of Nebraska was removed and replaced with approximately one pound of bone meat to facilitate training.
Training: Snowflake had a “back up” session in Den 1. This was a successful session and the goal was met! The first time she was asked to back up, she started to turn around and look at the skylight. She took two steps back in a straight line when asked for visual and verbal direction as second time (hand flat and pushing towards her/ “back up”). She repeated this again towards the end of the session and was reinforced with a small scatter.
Enrichment: Scatters performed at various times throughout the day: carrot scatter through chute (Den 1), fish/produce scatter (Roof – Exhibit)
***
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Medical Notes:
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (2 Active, 1 Resting)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 35/1
Location(s) on exhibit: in hallway by den 1, on exhibit near water, Den 4
Diet: Snowflake stopped to drink two times during the fourth session.
Behavior: Snowflake was seen swimming this morning.
Enrichment: Snowflake was provided a puzzle feeder (“shroom” room shape) with fish and carrots inside on exhibit.
***
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake had some loose stool in Den 4 after the last feed today.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Active
Average RR/ 1 minute: 34/minute
Location(s) on exhibit: Hallway
Extra notes: No resting resp rate recorded today
Diet: Approximately 1.5 lbs. bone meat were substituted for the ground Nebraska diet to utilize for training.
Behavior: Snowflake swam in the exhibit pool this morning.
Training: Snowflake held beautifully for the mock injection (by a second person) during this session! Snowflake did “back up” session in Den 4 This was a successful session. One fish was thrown under her legs to start the movement of backing up, then she was asked for the verbal and visual directions. She gave two consistent responses with at least one straight and full step backwards. (This training will help Snowflake participate in her own routine medical care.)
Enrichment: Two-layer ice cake, layered with capelin and hidden underneath a halved ball on exhibit. Lettuce and carrot scatter in Den 1.
***
Monday, July 14, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake was 587.5 lbs. (+6.5lb increase from her previous weight). Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak for her itchy tail region at the third feed. She hovered over the soak. Her rear was not as submerged as preferred.
Daily Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Resting (2)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 26/1; 8/1
Location(s) on exhibit: exhibit near water; Den 4
Behavior: Snowflake swam in the exhibit pool in the a.m.
Enrichment: Produce scatter (roof – exhibit). Herring ice cake with fish, produce, and meat on top (exhibit).
***
Sunday, July 13, 2025
Medical Notes: Trying probiotic for antibiotic associated loose stool to see if compliance is good. Snowflake was seen trembling in her whole body during the first feed after rising to a seated position in den 1. Snowflake was doing some heavier breathing while locked on exhibit for the scale to be put into the chute. An intern noticed this while doing a scatter from the roof. Snowflake got into the pool to swim around 3:20 p.m. Snowflake had two loose stools in Den 4.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/ Active/ Both: Both (2 active, 2 resting)
Average RR/ 1 minute: 29/1
Location(s) on exhibit: Exhibit near water; Den 4
Behavior: Snowflake got into the pool to swim around 3:20 p.m.
Enrichment: Scatter feed through Den 1 chute. Den 1 chute feed with meat and fish. Herring ice treat with smaller watermelon ice treat on top in Den 1 after cleaning. Boomer ball with lettuce and one piece of carrot on exhibit beach. Fish and produce scatter (roof – exhibit)
***
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Medical notes: Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 4 and on exhibit overnight. Snowflake was observed sitting in a hunched position on exhibit this morning.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting/Active/Both: Active
RR/ 1 minute: 30/min, 32/min, ~43/min, 51/min
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting in hallway near Den 1, sitting on exhibit near water, lying in hallway (looking around) facing Den 1, sitting in Den 4
Extra notes: Heavy breathing observed with ~43/min rate and heavy breathing with an open mouth observed with 51/min rate
Behavior: Snowflake got in the exhibit pool at approximately 10:40 a.m. and stayed in for about 5-10 minutes.
Enrichment: Scatters performed at various times throughout the day: lettuce scatter through chute (Den 1), lettuce scatter (Roof – Exhibit Pool), and produce scatter through chute (Den 1 + Den 2). Large herring ice treat topped with medium watermelon ice treat (Exhibit).
***
Friday, July 11, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 4 overnight. Snowflake was observed sitting in a hunched position in the chute area this morning.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting / Active /Both: Both
RR/1 minute: ~36/min, ~60/min, 34/min, 32/min, 42/min
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting in hallway near Den 1, hunched sitting in hallway, lying in hallway, sitting in hallway near Den 1, sitting in Den 4 looking toward chute.
Enrichment: Carrot scatter through chute (Den 2). Items administered at various times throughout the day: herring ice treat (Den 4), ice pile – plain and dyed ice, various sizes – with capelin and a boomer ball with capelin in ice pile (Exhibit)
***
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Enrichment: Scatters performed at various times throughout the day, one with about 10 capelin (Roof -> Exhibit) and about three quarters of second feed (Pier Town -> Exhibit). Items administered at various times throughout the day: watermelon ice treat (Den 2) and ice pile with fish (exhibit).
Diet: Approximately one pound of Nebraska was removed and replaced with approximately one pound of bone meat to facilitate training. Approximately half a pound of Nebraska was removed from the last feed.
Medical note: Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 1 after the last feed.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting/Active/Both: Active
RR/1 minute: 38/min, 42/min, approximately 40/min
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting on exhibit near pool, Standing/leaning in hallway looking into Den 1, Sitting in hallway looking into Den 1
***
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Enrichment: The following items were administered to Snowflake throughout the day: herring ice treat in Den 4, ice toy (half bobbin). Snowflake was given access to the exhibit, den 4, and the chute while maintenance was working in the porch area. Snowflake was given carrot slices in den 4.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/Active/Both: Both (1 Resting (18/1); 2 Active (42/1 and 69/1)
Average RR/1 minute: 43/1
Location(s) on exhibit: sitting in hall near den 1 doorway, sitting by pool on exhibit
Extra notes: Snowflake was observed hunched sitting and looking around during one of the active resp. rates. Snowflake was observed moving a lot during the resting resp rate.
***
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Medical note: Snowflake was observed doing some heavy, open-mouthed breathing in the hallway this morning. Snowflake had a loose stool with some foam on it in den 4 overnight. She had another loose stool in den 2 this afternoon. Snowflake swam in the holding pool this morning.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/Active/Both: Active
Average RR/1 minute: 53/minute
Location(s) on exhibit: Hallway, near den 1
Extra notes: No resting resp rate recorded today. Snowflake was doing some heavier breathing for two of three active resp rates recorded today.
Enrichment: Frozen halved bobbin with lettuce on top given on porch. Medium ice pile in maternity den with several capelin hidden underneath. She investigated the ice pile long enough to locate all of the fish, but did not engage with it (roll in it/lay in it) beyond this. Small tour in the holding area. Snowflake was offered some lettuce during the tour. Due to some exhibit maintenance, Snowflake has access to all of holding (den side and porch side) but not to the exhibit today. Full bale of hay spread all over den 4
***
Monday, July 7, 2025
Medical Notes: Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 4 overnight. Snowflake was observed sitting in a hunched position in the hallway while doing some heavier breathing this morning. Snowflake received 100% of her Ivermectin dose today.
Daily Average Respiratory Rates
Resting/Active/Both: Both
RR/1 minute: ˜44/min, 43/min, 13/min
Location(s): sitting in hallway, lying in hallway, lying in Den 4
Snowflake was very hesitant to station for the last feed. This appeared to be due to strong rain hitting the skylights above Den 1 and Den 2. She was also hesitant to go into Den 4, where the electric door to the exhibit was open. After seeing she was hesitant to come to her normal station in Den 1 and hesitance to enter Den 4, we attempted to station her in the hallway from the porch keeper side, where she eventually settled after about 10 minutes of waiting. The feed and medications were successful following this, although Snowflake still appeared very weary of her environment.
Enrichment: Produce and fish scatter (Roof -> Exhibit)
***
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake was provided an ice pile on the exhibit beach with a herring ice treat that had fish and meat on top. Fish were in the ice pile, too. The following items were provided throughout the day: produce through the chute (Den 1) and on bars (Den 2) (Shifting), fish hidden throughout Den 1, Den 2, and Maternity Den, produce through the chute (Den 4) (Shifting)
Medical Note: Snowflake trembled after the first feed in a seated position. Around 10:00 a.m. Snowflake was leaning on the wall partially in the hallway looking into den 2. After this she went into the chute and was hunched sitting. Later in the day, she was doing some heavy open-mouth breathing in the hallway.
Salt Soak
Salinity: 23ppt
Notes: Snowflake stood up frequently during the session.
No respiration rate was taken on Snowflake today, due to her choosing to be in den 4 most of the day. When entering the holding area, she got up from her resting position, making it harder to get a respiratory rate.
***
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Medical note: Lying in the chute this morning with her rear end slightly raised in the air. This is an unusual position for her to lay in and may indicate some discomfort in her genital area. Snowflake was also doing some hunched sitting accompanied by heavy, open mouth breathing this morning near the ice cave. Snowflake had a loose stool in Den 4 overnight and a loose stool in the hallway during exhibit cleaning. Snowflake received a chlorhexidine soak today.
Daily Respiratory Rates
Resting/Active/Both: Both
RR/1 Minute: 61/m, 36/min, 13/min
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting in Den 4, sitting in hallway looking into Den 1, Lying in Den 4
Extra notes: Heavy breathing and genital scratching observed during 61/min rate
Following the last feed, Snowflake moved from a lying position into a sitting position. After settling into the sitting position, her full body trembled for about 2-3 seconds. It was very pronounced throughout her entire body/head and did not appear to be associated with active effort of trying to stand/move, however it is hard to be certain. Shortly after this, Snowflake stood up (albeit slowly with some continued rear leg stiffness) and moved to Den 4 to lay down. Approximately five minutes after the initial observation, Snowflake was observed lying down in her hay pile in Den 4 with no apparent discomfort.
Behavior: Snowflake was observed swimming in the exhibit pool and interacting with enrichment at approximately 12:10 p.m. today.
Enrichment: Produce scatter through chute (Den 1 + Den 2). Boomer ball herring ice toy treat with produce (Exhibit).
***
Friday, July 4, 2025
Medical note: Snowflake swam in the pool in the am. Observed doing some walling leaning in den 1 this morning.
Salt Soak
Salinity: 30 ppt
Snowflake did not want to sit for long duration in the tub. After sitting, she would immediately stand back up.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/Active/Both: Both (1 active, 1 resting)
RR/1 minute: 20/1
Location(s) on exhibit: hallway; hallway/den 1 door
Extra notes: Her first respiration rate was higher and approximate because it was harder to see on the monitor system
Enrichment: Produce and fish scatter (roof -> exhibit)
***
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Medical note: Routine visual exam (Den 1 + Den 2): no new concerns – continue current care – will investigate feasibility of starting probiotics. Snowflake was doing some hunched sitting when we arrived this morning. Swam in pool in the AM. Observed doing some tail region scratching this morning.
Enrichment: Ice pile with large toy covering fish and sweet potato (Exhibit). Lettuce in mesh (Den 1 + Den 2)
Diet: Snowflake refused meat today and left approximately one pound.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/Active/Both: Active
RR/1 minute: ˜34/min, ˜60/min
Location(s) on exhibit: Standing in hallway, sitting in hallway near Den 1
Extra notes: Heavy breathing associated with the ˜60/min rate
***
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
Enrichment: Snowflake got a carrot scatter in Den 1.
Diet: Threw out 0.5# of Nebraska carnivore meat
Medical Note: Snowflake drank 1 time at the last feed. Received 0% of her p.m. Milk Thistle dose due to refusing medication in meat/sweet potato. Observed doing some heavy, open mouth breathing this morning.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate
Resting/Active/Both: Both (1 Active – 28/1; Resting – 14/1)
Average RR / 1 minute: 21/1
Location(s) on exhibit: Sitting in Hallway by Den 1, Laying in Den 4
***
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Diet – Increased liquid consumption
Snowflake stopped to drink water once during the third feed and once during the fourth feed today.
Fecal observation:
Snowflake had one loose stool overnight.
Medical note:
Snowflake was observed scratching her tail region this morning before the first feed.
Behavior:
Snowflake swam in the exhibit pool this afternoon before the last feed.
Medical note:
Snowflake burped on time during the last feed.
Enrichment details:
Watermelon ice treat topped with meat and capelin.
Medical note:
Daily Average Respiratory Rate (RR)
Resting/Active/Both: Both: 2 active, 1 resting
Average RR/1 minute: Active: 58/minute; Resting: 6/minute
Location(s) on exhibit: Den 4, hallway
***
Monday, June 30, 2025
Medical Note:
Daily Respiratory Rate (RR)
Resting/Active/Both: Resting (2)
RR/1 minute: 5/1 (sleeping), 52/1 (heavier breathing after last feed)
Location on exhibit: den 4
Extra notes: Snowflake was doing some heavier breathing while lying in den 4 after the last feed of the day. She had been sleeping for at least 1.5 hours before the last feed.
Snowflake was sitting very gingerly today, lowering her front half of her body first when lying down with her butt in the air, then letting her butt fall last to lie down. This happened during the last feed and after the last feed when she went to lie in her hay
Snowflake seemed “sleepy” with her eyes slightly squinted at the end of the day before her last feed. She laid down for the feed instead of keeping her front neck and head in more of an upright position and with her back legs out behind her in a “sploot.” She seemed to perk up more throughout the feed and appetite was normal.
Enrichment:
Ice pile on exhibit with fish scattered inside and food dyed ice shapes on top.
Feed log:
Threw out 0.5 lb. meat due to her burping at earlier feed/having a lot of food for the last feed.
Snowflake burped during the second feed.
***
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Enrichment details:
Snowflake was given produce scattered in Den 1 and 2 from the chutes.
Snowflake was given a half ball with produce inside on exhibit.
Snowflake was given an ice cake in Den 2. The first layer of the cake was a frozen watermelon treat, and the second layer of the cake was a herring ice treat. The cake was topped with herring and capelin.
Medical notes:
Snowflake was seen swimming around noon.
Daily Average Respiratory Rate (RR)
Resting/Active/Both: Active (3)
Average RR/1 minute: 43/1
Location(s) on exhibit: Exhibit beach; hallway; den 4
Extra notes: All RR taken while Snowflake was sitting. The first one was on the higher side (55/1) and she was heavy breathing.
Snowflake was breathing heavier in the a.m. in the hallway before her first feed. Her respiratory rate recorded at this time was 55/1 minute.
Snowflake was observed having blood on her rear this a.m./ There was blood and an odor in the hallway.
Snowflake was seen itching her tail region twice today. Once in the late morning on exhibit and once in the pm after her first feed (she had been rolling in her hay)
Medical treatment:
Salt Soak – Salinity 20 ppt
Snowflake was hesitant to get into the soak tub. She became frustrated and bit the side of the tub. She also decided to drink some of the salt and had an aversive reaction. She was brought into den 2 after this and asked to “hold” then given two capelin. She was asked a “let’s go” back into den 3 and into the soak tub. After some more hesitation she did eventually get into the tub. She struggled to sit in the soak and stood intermittently but did hold it for longer at the end before being asked back to den 1.
Behavior:
Snowflake was rolling in her hay after the last feed in den 4.
Snowflake burped once during the last feed.
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