Pip, a critically endangered African penguin, hatched at the New England Aquarium in 1997 and has lived far beyond the typical 10-to-15-year life expectancy for penguins in their native environment. At the end of last year, Aquarium trainers and veterinary staff noticed that Pip had developed an abnormal gait and limp. After trying different pain medications, the team pursued integrative therapies and enlisted licensed acupuncturist Dr. Claire McManus to support his care. Pip began receiving acupuncture treatments nine months ago as Aquarium staff work to manage symptoms associated with advanced age.
“Similar to humans, aging penguins commonly develop osteoarthritis or spinal disease that can lead to gait changes and discomfort,” said Dr. Melissa Joblon, Director of Animal Health at the New England Aquarium. “Using additional treatments such as acupuncture and physical therapy allows us to decrease the dosage of pain medications and can greatly improve an animal’s quality of life.”
McManus, who has 25 years of experience treating humans and animals, has also treated Aquarium penguins and rescued sea turtles. The Aquarium said combining acupuncture and physical therapy with other care can reduce the dosage of pain medication while helping improve an animal’s quality of life.
The Aquarium provides individualized care, training and enrichment to all 49 of its penguins; about 60 percent have surpassed the 15-year life expectancy of their wild counterparts.
